Obituary – Starr, Billy Jerome (BJ)

Starr, Billy Jerome

59 of Phoenix, launched from this life to the next on October 4, 2013 after a heroic battle with lung cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends who loved him unconditionally. Bj, as he was affectionally known by friends and family, graduated from East High School and went on to complete 31 years as a Phoenix Police Officer. BJ served on the force as a patrol officer, airport security and became the first and only black helicopter pilot for the City of Phoenix. Upon his retirement in July 2006, BJ continued his service as a reserve officer assigned to the Sky Harbor International Airport here he remained until his death. BJ founded three companies; Photography by B. J. Starr, Starr Enterprises and Starr Micro Systems. He also completed a Master’s Degree at Webster University. He is preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Katye Starr. He is also survived by two sons, Emil Malik Starr, (Sade) and Eric Jerome Starr; 2 sisters, Debra Starr Boyd (Robert) and Jerita Starr Laforcarde, (Jeffrey); 9 grandchildren, 4 nephews, 1 niece and a host of great nieces and nephews to mourn his passing. Viewing is scheduled for Friday, 11 Oct at Universal Memorial Center, 1100 E. Jefferson from 5:30- 7:30 pm. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, 12 Oct at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson at 2:30 pm. Repast will be immediately following services. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in the name of Billy (BJ) Starr to The American Cancer Society at Donate.Cancer.Org . He will be truly missed by coworkers, friends and family.

AZ Republic