Bishop James Calvin "Purnie" Starks

Bishop James Calvin “Purnie” Starks, 75, husband of Rev. Joyce Ellison Starks for 54 years, transitioned on Sunday October 25, 2026, at his residence. Born in Greenville, SC he was a son of the late Nelson and Mattie Lee Durham Starks.

Bishop Starks was predeceased by his daughter, Sonnii “Rica” Starks, and two sisters, Queene Fuller and JoAnn Starks.

Surviving in addition to his wife: one daughter, Jamila Starks of Greenville, SC; one son, James N. (Cassandra) Starks of Mauldin, SC; one brother, Nathaniel (Stella) Starks of Greenville, SC; five grandchildren, Kamil Smith, Bria Smith, Kaylah Cureton, Jamiyah Starks, and Ja’lise Starks, all of Greenville, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.