James (Jim) Warner Starr went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (age 93). A native of Johnson City, Jim was born on November 15, 1932. He was a devoted Christian and placed his faith in God throughout his life. Jim served his community proudly through many different aspects over the years. Serving others was one of his biggest accomplishments.
Jim was a 1950 graduate of Science Hill High School. If you knew him, you would know his devotion to the Hilltoppers while he was in school and throughout the rest of his life. He played football and basketball for the Toppers and supported them at every game as a season ticket holder after graduation. Jim was in the United States Army fighting for our country from March 24, 1954 - March 23, 1956. Following that, he devoted his life to work at Piedmont Airlines for over 30 years. He was an active member in the Johnson City Civitan Club. Mr. Starr was also inducted into the Science Hill High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013. He was the last founding charter member at Covenant Presbyterian Church since 1964. His dedication as a Veteran, Topper for Life, career at Piedmont, and his church family will forever be impactful and remembered.
Mr. Starr was a devoted father, husband, grandfather, and friend to everyone he came across. He was the father to Traci Starr Honeycutt who went to be with the Lord on June 4, 2022. The husband to Norma Jean Starr who went to be with the Lord on August 8, 2022. Jim is survived by his grandson, Kaden Foster Honeycutt and his wife Brealyn Honeycutt and granddaughter, Keaton Starr Honeycutt whom he was so proud of and his cousin, Kathy Eades and daughter McKenzie Eades. Mr. Starr had many special friends throughout his life and made a lasting impact on each of them with his humor and devotion. He was a man who will be greatly missed by his Johnson City community.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church 603 Sunset Dr, Johnson City, TN 37604 or Science Hill Athletics 1509 John Exum Pkwy, Johnson City, TN 37604.
Graveside will be held at 10am on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Monte Vista Memorial Park with a service to follow at 1 pm at Covenant Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Maggie Rust officiating. Anyone who wishes to go in procession to the cemetery is asked to meet at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home at 9:15 am.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Worked with Jimmy at Piedmont Airlines back in the 70’s and I ended up with a 40 year career! Kept in some sort of touch through the years , especially and most recently with the Bojangles Mafia ( lol ) on any weekday morning . Jim was just a Great guy all around and through & through … Will be Missed .
Condolences go out to His granddaughter and grandson. Jimmy was very proud of them both. I became friends with Jimmy due to my military connection and love of Bojangles'. He was the most kindness man I have ever known, and we bonded quickly and become good friends. He was like a grandfather to me. Prayers to his family.
02/12/2026
Luanne Hoilman
Keaton & Kaden, I am so sorry for your loss! Your Grandfather was a wonderful, godly, kind man! He loved his family, and was a huge Topper fan. I had the priviledge of visiting with Jim and Norma in their home and saw Jim when he was at the VA. I also saw them every 6 months in the dental office for their dental cleaning; it was always a joy to see them! Jim was so proud of your Mother and the both of you! You two have been through so much for your age.. I really feel for you and will be praying for you. May God, precious memories and time bring you peace and comfort. Sincerely, Luanne Hoilman
Jim was a great guy. I worked with Jim at Tri-Cities with Piedmont. Keeping you all in my prayers.
02/11/2026
Pam Wilson Masone
Praying for the family. RIP Jim!
Pam Piedmont/TRI 1981-84
