Cecil Stark

James Cecil Stark, 89, passed away at his residence on Monday, June 30, 2025.  He was born in Yalobusha County on February 2, 1936 to the late William Samuel Stark and Cora Melton Stark.  Cecil was a graduate of Ellard High School, Class of 1955.  After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  While in the Navy, Cecil served aboard the USS Hancock, an attack aircraft carrier.  While aboard the Hancock, Cecil sailed the Pacific to the far east.  He was also stationed in Hawaii.  After his tour of service, Cecil returned to Calhoun County and married Bessie Griffin on July 2, 1960.  He and Bessie lacked 2 days celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary.  For most all of his adult life, Cecil was a residential contractor.  He earned the reputation of being a dependable and solid builder, building homes all across North East Mississippi.  Cecil was a devoted and faithful Christian who loved Jesus Christ.  He earned a degree from Liberty Bible Institute in 1988.  He served as a deacon at Schoona Valley Baptist Church in Calhoun County and later a deacon at Trace Road Baptist Church of Amory.  Cecil took great pride and love in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ to many throughout  his his life.  Cecil will be fondly remembered for his care, encouragement, laugh and smile.

Cecil is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Bessie Stark, Smithville; daughter, Kim Holloway (David), Smithville; son, Jamie Stark, Smithville; sister, Ann Stark Mason (Doug), TX; grandchildren, Eric Holloway, Talon Holloway, Ben Stark and AdreAnne Stark Miller; great grandchildren, Anastasia Holloway, Quincy Freeman, Taysun Miller, Klaybren Miller, Estella Stark and Andrew Stark; a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Cecil is preceded in death by his siblings, Charles Stark, Irene Jones and Fay Arbuckle.

Funeral services with military honors will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Cleveland Moffett Funeral Home in Amory with Bro. James Taylor officiating.  Burial will be in Pearce Chapel Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Talon Holloway, Ben Stark, Quincy Freeman, Octavian Miller, Jahew Harrelson and J.J. Winter.  

Visitation will be prior to the service on Sunday from 1 PM until 2:45 PM.

Condolences may be shared at clevelandmoffettfuneralhome.com.