Alberta Evans Starnes

Alberta Evans Starnes passed away gently on Friday, June 2. An Asheville native, she was the daughter of the late James Albert Evans and Elizabeth (Bess) Blackwell Evans. Born on July 4, 1930, Alberta met a cute boy at a square dance whose blue eyes mesmerized her. That cute boy, Hal Fletcher Starnes, was taken by the curl on her forehead and became her husband on July 8, 1950. It was love at first sight and the beginning of a true love story. They raised their three children and had 67 years of happiness in marriage. Always devoted to family, Alberta also had a generous heart that was open to anyone in need. She became famous for her southern cooking: pumpkin bread, prune cake, and squash casserole. Alberta could always be counted on to keep bellies full. Her grandkids all received baby blankets that she made. Along the way she volunteered and became involved in many activities. A graduate of Asheville Public Schools and St. Genevieve of the Pines, she was a Girl Scout in her early life. She was a former member of the Jr. Vetust Club, a member of Literature II book group of the AAUW, and a former first grade volunteer at Vance School. She, along with her husband, Hal, volunteered for many years with Meals on Wheels. At age 50, Alberta fulfilled a life-long dream by completing her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology at UNC-A. Alberta was christened at Trinity United Methodist Church, confirmed at age 9, and began her active membership which lasted up to her death. Throwing her heart and soul into the church community, her involvement at Trinity included 60 years in the choir inspiring others with her beautiful voice, 23 years teaching the Sprinkle Bible class, involvement with the YAH (Young at Heart) group and supporting meals for the homeless in Pritchard Park. She was also a former president of the United Methodist Women. Of course, countless church potlucks and "covered dishes" for any occasion at Trinity were graced with Alberta's delectable dishes made with the deep love she felt for her beloved Trinity family. Her kindness knew no bounds and those lucky enough to know her will always remember the twinkle in her eye and sweet laughter. Survivors include her husband Hal of Asheville, son Dr. H. Fletcher Starnes Jr. (Dr. Beth Valentine) of Saratoga Springs, New York along with their 4 children, Fletch, Theresa, Ian and Valentine, daughter Caroline Douglas (Bill Douglas) of Boulder, Colorado along with their two children, Catherine and Willy, and son Andrew Starnes (Linda Wisler) of Denver, Colorado. The family is grateful for the love Alberta gave them her whole life and will cherish the precious memories of Alberta forever. A memorial service celebrating Alberta's life will be conducted by Rev. Rodney Hagans, Jr. and held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 587 Haywood Road, Asheville, on Thursday, June 8. The family will be available at 1 pm to greet visitors, with the service to follow at 2 pm. Private graveside service to follow at Green Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Givens Estates Resident Assistance Fund. 2360 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803. Funeral arrangements are by Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave.