Obituaries

Florence Ann (nee. Edgar) Starnes, 76 of Burlington, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Florence, KY. She was born February 1, 1950 to Clarence & Margaret (nee. Pitts) Edgar in St. Charles, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Florence is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Wayne Starnes; daughters, Holly (Tim) Chenot & Rian (Jason) Embry; brother, Bob (Linda) Edgar; sister, Pat (Bob) Crittendon and 3 grandchildren, Bryce (Taylor), Ben & Casey Chenot.

Florence and her husband Wayne were high school sweethearts, sharing a remarkable love story over seven years of dating and 53 years of marriage. Their life was built on laughter, loyalty, and countless long drives in search of a new lunch spot. Their partnership was steady, warm, and unconditional.

Together, they shared a love for travel. They especially enjoyed taking fun cruises and exploring the world side by side. Their journeys took them to Ireland, Greece, France, Alaska, Hawaii, Germany, and many places in between — each trip adding another cherished memory to their life together.

She was the heart of her family — a constant source of comfort, encouragement, and strength. She cherished her two daughters, loving them dearly and showing unwavering support throughout their lives. But her greatest joy in life was being “Nanny” to her three grandchildren. They were her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent cheering them on from the sidelines, celebrating their accomplishments, and loving them fiercely.

Her love for children extended far beyond her own family. She was a devoted teacher for 24 years at Lincoln Elementary School, where she poured her heart into her students. She touched countless young lives with her patience, kindness, and steady guidance. Generations of students remember her not just as a teacher, but as someone who truly cared.

A true sports enthusiast, she rarely missed a game. Saturdays were sacred — filled with college football and passionate cheers for the Michigan Wolverines and the Kentucky Wildcats. She proudly supported the Cincinnati Reds and the Cincinnati Bengals through every season — the wins, the losses, and everything in between. When she wasn’t watching a game, you could often find her enjoying a lively round of bingo or trying her luck at the slot machines — always with a hopeful smile and a playful competitive spirit.

She lived a life rooted in love — love for Wayne, her family, her students, and the everyday moments that made life so meaningful. She will be missed immeasurably, loved endlessly, and remembered always.

A Casual Celebration of Life will be held from 4:30-7:30 p.m., Monday, March 2, 2026 at Florence Baptist Temple, 1898 Old Florence Pike, Burlington KY 41005. In tribute to her favorite colors, guests are encouraged to dress comfortably in yellow or blue. Memorials are suggested to the Bellevue Education Foundation, 219 Center St., Bellevue, KY 41073 or Dayton Independent Schools, 200 Clay St., Dayton, KY, 41074.