Tom Starkey

June 9, 1948 - October 28, 2020

Erivin Thomas “Tom” Starkey, 72, Topeka, Kansas, passed away at Stormont-Vail Hospital Wednesday, October 28, 2020. Tom was born June 9, 1948, in Topeka, the oldest child of Charley Thomas and Irene Frances (Mack) Starkey. After high school, he joined the US Navy and was honorably discharged in 1968. On January 10, 1976, Tom was united in marriage to Sammye Rice. Sammye and Tom had their first child, Emmylou Starkey, on February 28, 1979. Emmylou preceded them in death.. Tom and Sammye traveled together to watch many auto races, which was a pastime they enjoyed. Sammye passed away this past June. Tom worked for Steel Fixture Manufacturing Company. He had been a member of the Eagles Lodge in Topeka. He enjoyed many different hobbies over the years such as traveling, hunting, fishing, and shooting with his son. Perhaps one of Tom’s favorite things to do was to listen to music while enjoying a cold beer with family and friends. Tom loved being in the company of his dog and granddogs. Tom was a unique man who will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Tom is survived by his son, Charley Starkey of Topeka; daughter, Gloria Honn and her husband, Adam of Topeka; and by many special nieces and nephews. Tom was also preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Mary Irvine and Kathy Hanson. Tom’s family will greet friends from 2 until 4 p.m. Sunday at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka, Kansas, 66614. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial, with military honors, will follow in Shipshee Cemetery, Mayetta, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society and sent in care of the funeral home.