John Porter Starks

John (Johnny Boy) Porter Starks, age 80, went home to the Lord Saturday, November 13, 2010 at his residence. He was born to the late Wallace Starks and Gladys Turner-Hoye on September 12, 1930 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. After serving in the Korean War, John graduated from Alabama State University with a degree in Physical Education. He continued his education at The Ohio State University where he graduated in the first Physical Therapy class in 1956. In 1957 he married Narcissia V. Starks, who was his devoted wife for nearly 50 years, until her death in 2007. From this union were born a daughter, Kathleen Louise and son, John Kevin. John retired from The Ohio State University in 1989, having served as director of the Department of Physical Medicine for more than 30 years. He was also an emeritus faculty member in the School of Allied Medical Professions. John served for many years as the treasurer for the Ohio Wheelchair Athletic Association. He also held positions as an independent contractor for several home health care agencies. John was a faithful member of Second Baptist Church for more than 50 years, as well as a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. John thoroughly enjoyed life, especially, The Ohio State Buckeyes, food (ribs) and making good wine. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Kathleen, of Columbus; son, Kevin (Charlotte) of Atlanta; grandsons, John Weston and Mason Edward Starks, of Atlanta; sister, Lydia Daniels of Berkley, California; nephews, Danny, Bruce, and Tony Daniels of California; cousins, Doug Landers, Sandra Miller, and Porter Poindexter; and dear friends, Benjamin Holland and Don Tootle. The family would like to express thanks to the wonderful staffs of Sunrise of Worthington, The Laurels of Norworth, and Heartland Hospice. A very special thanks to John's caregivers during the last few months, Frances Austin, Paula Eskridge, Marlene McKee, and Malika Newlin. . In lieu of flowers, friends may consider making donations to the John P. and Narcissia V. Starks Scholarship Fund for Nursing and Physical Therapy at the Ohio State University, Fund No. 60619, Department of Endowment, 304 West Lane Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43221. Service: Friday, November 19, 2010 1:00 PM Wake Service 1: Friday, November 19, 2010 12:30 PM