Oliver Martin “Buddy” Starnes

Mr. Oliver "Buddy" Martin Starnes, a beloved member of his family, passed away on February 16, 2025, at the age of 75.

Mr. Buddy was born on December 17, 1949, to Samuel Sr. and Mary (Allison) Starnes. Buddy attended York School District and graduated from York High School in 1968, followed by the Welding Program at York Technol School in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

After completing his education, Buddy moved to Morristown, New Jersey, where he applied his welding skills at various jobs.

In addition to welding, he also mastered truck driving trade, specializing in dump trucks and dump trailers, working alongside his brothers as owner-operators. Buddy was married to Kim Wright, and together they had a son, Oliver M. Starnes Il.

In his leisure time, Buddy enjoyed playing pool and billiards.

His skill and passion for the game earned him numerous trophies and awards over the years. He also enjoyed watching his son Oliver play football in high school and college.

He returned to the home house at 107 Miller Street York, South Carolina in 2020.

Buddy led a life full of memories, experiences, and laughter. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.

Oliver is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Sr. and Mary Starnes; three brothers, James Starnes, Thomas "TJ" Starnes, and Samuel Starnes Jr.; and four sisters, Sitrena S. Berry, Johnnie Mae S. Gray, Rose S. Kelly, and Margaret "Jackie" Starnes.

Left to cherish his memories is his son, Oliver Martin Starnes I1; brothers Perry Starnes (Rita Jones) of York, SC and sister Georga Juanita Glenn of Chicago, IL; He is also survived by a brother-in-law, James Kelly Jr. of Columbia, SC; and sister-in-law Quency Starnes of Morristown, NJ, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.