Judy Heath Starks

Judy Heath Starks, 64, passed peacefully in her sleep July 14th, 2022, at home in Ocean Isle Beach, with her beloved husband and pets by her side.

Born Judy Diane Heath on August 16, 1957, in New Bern, North Carolina, she was preceded in death by her parents, Christopher Manley Heath and Dorothy Thompson Heath.

Judy graduated from Meredith College in her youth, later returning for a second degree in Interior Design, after which she worked as an accomplished designer with Shail Homes and for private clients throughout the Wake County area.

After a short courtship in 1980, she married Paul Clifford Starks, Jr., who co-owned Ditch Witch of North Carolina before retirement. They celebrated 42 wonderful years together and were inseparable in love.

Judy passed on her joy for creativity to her two surviving daughters, Megan Starks-Hafner, 36, and Holly Starks, 33. Judy was recently blessed with her first grandchild, Sylvie Starks-Hafner in January 2022 and often spoke to everyone of how besotted she was with her.

In retirement, Judy and Cliff volunteered for Ocean Isle’s recreation department, organizing many community events for children. They also built and sold bespoke beach-themed furniture through a boutique shop and were regulars in their beach walking group.

Judy had a profound love for animals, always caring for a cat or dog…or four. Throughout life, Judy was a world traveler, adventuring on many trips through European countries or tropical locals, drawn to explore by her curious and bright nature.

Judy was well-loved by her family, including three surviving sisters, Janet Cimini, Linda Jones, and Barbara Talley, who along with both of Judy’s daughters claim she was their best friend. She will be missed deeply.

To celebrate Judy’s wonderful life, a service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 22, at Munden Funeral Home in Morehead City. The family will receive friends an hour prior.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.