Ila Faye Starks

Ila Faye Starks, age 96, passed from this life to be with her Lord and Savior on June 9, 2026, at Grand Manor in Monticello, Arkansas.

She was born May 27,1930 to John William and Elva Virginia Cooper Crouse.

Ila was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings. Also preceding her in death was her beloved husband of 50yrs, business partner, and best friend, Robert T. (Bobby) Starks. Together they owned and operated Starks and Son Grocery in Carthage, Arkansas. Also preceding her in death was a son, Ronald Glenn Starks and five great grandchildren, Emerson Watson, Evan Watson, Ezekial Greg Watson, Erin Watson, and Lucy Elizabeth Starks.

Ila is survived by one daughter Sharon Garner and Spouse Ben of Warren, Arkansas, daughter-in-law, Sherry Glennon Starks of Sheridan, Arkansas and sister-in-law, Brenda Starks Miles of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Jeremy Garner/Brandy Hensley, AR, Shannon Watson/Michael, Sheridan, AR, Matthew Starks/Autumn of Prattsville, AR, and B.G. Garner/Jessica of Virginia Beach, VA, and three great grandchildren, Ella Garner/fiance Tyler Rushing, Eli Watson, and Levi Starks. She is also survived by many special nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Ila was a faithful member of Central Missionary Baptist Church of Warren, Ar. Attending church services was the highlight of her week. She made friends wherever she lived and was always ready to share her love for Jesus and family. She was affectionately called "Mammaw" by her grandchildren, great grandchildren and many of her church family.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents of Grand Manor Assisted Living in Monticello, and Arkansas Hospice for the excellent care given to their mother and grandmother during the six years of her stay there.

Funeral services for Ila Faye Starks will be Friday June 12, at 10 AM at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce, Arkansas with visitation at 9 AM. Burial will be at Tulip Cemetery in Tulip, AR. Bro. Charles Woolley will conduct the service and Ben Garner will provide the music. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Garner, BG Garner, Michael Watson, Eli Watson, Matt Starks, Levi Starks, Billy Crouse, Randy Hollis and Tyler Rushing. Honorary pallbearers will be Gregg Reep, Densil Stewart, Charlie Doss, Billy Smith, Mike Williams, and Neal Barton. Arrangements Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce to sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.