Graveside services for Mr. Cory Starrett, 40, of Houston, Texas, previously of Jefferson, Texas will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday June 26, 2021, at Pyland Cemetery in Avinger, Texas with Brother James Duncan officiating, under the direction of Haggard Funeral Home of Jefferson, TX. There will be a time of visitation with family and friends from 6:00PM – 8:00PM on Friday, June 25, 2021, in the Capt. Wm. Perry Chapel of Haggard funeral Home in Jefferson, Texas.
Cory Lee Starrett, known to many as Duck, passed away on Sunday June 20, 2021 at his home in Houston, Texas. Cory was born November 23, 1980 in Marshall, Texas to Phil and Ghena Starrett of Avinger.
Cory was known for his love of all sports, but especially baseball. But nothing compared to the love he had for his Frammie (grandmother Odie Ray Starrett) and his Papa James Starrett.
Cory lit the room up when he walked in with his energy and smile. He made sure that he had everyone laughing before he walked out. If he was your friend, he considered you family and would do anything he could for you.
Following in the footsteps of both his grandfathers, Cory joined the Navy in 2005. Through his time in the military Cory was able to travel all over the world. He received the purple heart, the bronze star, as well as many other awards for the many selfless acts of bravery while serving our country.
Prior to signing up for service in the Navy, Cory met the love of his life Jessica Dial. Jessica stood beside him through many deployments and years of service as his biggest cheerleader while he served his country he loved so much.
Cory was blessed with two beautiful children that he loved and adored: Luke Jackson and Lillian Marie. Talking to Cory for even a second, he would always brag about how wonderful his children were and how he loved being their daddy.
Being married to Jessica not only blessed him with his two beautiful kids, but also Tony Dial a father-in-law that he loved with all of his heart and considered a best friend. As well as Shelly Dial, his mother-in-law that held a very special place in Cory’s heart.
Cory was preceded in death by his grandparents Hugh and Clara Butler, Papa James and Frammie Starrett, Aunt Mary Carter, Aunt Shirley Spencer, infant son Jackson Mark, and Kevin “Bull” Starrett. Cory is survived by his beautiful wife Jessica, son Luke, and daughter Lillian; all of Houston Texas. His parents Phil and Ghena Starrett of Avinger, Texas; brother and sister-in-law P.J. and Christi Starrett of Belmont, Mississippi; sister and brother-in-law Jaime and Justin Powell of Jefferson, Texas. Uncle Beau Butler of Jefferson, Texas and Uncle Steve Butler of Avinger, Texas; plus, many nieces, nephews, and cousins that he loved.
Family and friendship meant the world to Cory, his friendship/brotherhood with Cody Woods proved that and will live on through the many memories that were shared.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that you would consider donating to Homes for Our Troops in memory of Cory. Or even consider paying it forward in Cory’s name. Help our veterans or active military. Provide a meal to someone in need. Donate to a child’s goal or dream. It doesn’t have to cost a million dollars to help someone. Sometimes it is as simple as being nice or smiling at someone to let them know you see them. It doesn’t cost anything to be nice. Cory gave so much to those who needed it just to see them smile in return.
Cory will be buried by his Papa James and his Frammie Saturday June 26th.
The world will be a lot less funny now that he is gone.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Tony Dial, Cody Woods, Justin Powell, Ashton Powell, Colby Starrett, Wilson Powell III, Lance McFarland, Marty Lane, Ross Montgomery, Chris Dial and Anthony Dial.
In lieu of flowers Cory’s family has asked that donations be made to Homes For Our Troops at: https://www.hfotusa.org/get-involved/support_our_mission/ways_donate/
Online condolences may be made at www.haggardfuneralhome.com