Patsy Starling

Patsy Elkins Starling 90, of Fairhope, Alabama, died peacefully in her sleep in her home, June 11, 2026, after a long illness from Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. She was born in Claiborne Parrish Louisiana. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, the late Margaret Anglin and Wilbur Elkins; and stepmother, the late Anita O’Rear; siblings: the late Lloyd Elkins (Susan) and the late Betty Smith; and one son, the late Dr. Milton E. Starling. Pat is survived by her husband, Harvey Milton Starling, (93), Daughter, Machelle Starling (2 children); Daughter in law: Tammy Anderson Starling (2 children); Sons: Vernon Wayne Starling (Kim) (3 children) and Alan Lloyd Starling (the late Amy Kay) (1 daughter); grandchildren: Audrey Minor House (Jason), Jonathan Starling Minor, Anderson Milton Starling (Melissa), Clara Margaret Capps (Ross), Ashley Marie Petty (Patrick), Chelsea Rhea Sullivan (Barrett), Riley Lynn Starling and Amanda Thomas (Chris). She was also loved by 16 great grandchildren along with numerous nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends who will remember her. Pat attended Northwestern University in Louisiana where she was awarded a full nursing scholarship. However, she met and married the love of her life, Harvey Starling, a young evangelist in January 1955. During their 71 years of marriage, Pat stayed busy rearing their 4 children - Machelle, Milton, Vernon and Alan - while also teaching home Bible studies and ladies’ classes. Her passion for sharing the Word of God, made her a sought-after speaker at ladies’ conferences. Pat often traveled with Harvey to teach the gospel in locations throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia, helping to establish and strengthen churches and teaching others about Christ. While living in West Monroe, Louisiana, she owned a florist and gift shop and used her skills to decorate for and host many bridal teas and other special occasions. Her love of flowers showed even in her last weeks on this earth, asking for fresh flowers she could see in her room. Throughout the years, Pat readily opened her home to welcome others, full of generosity and always willing to help others. She was also an accomplished realtor in both Florence and Huntsville, Alabama, from 1975 – 2015 and helped many families find their ideal homes. A graveside service celebrating Pat’s life will be held at Pine Rest Cemetery, in Foley, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the following work which was especially dear to Pat’s heart: Midway Church of Christ Romania Evangelism P.O. Box 305 Point Clear, AL 36564 You are requested to wear spring or summer colors/clothing as this is a happy time to remember Pat.

Patsy Starling

January 13, 1936 - June 11, 2026