William B. Starks, pastor emeritus of Community Baptist Church, former associate pastor, retired Philadelphia Parks supervisor, Montford Point Marine, singer, and volunteer, passed away on October 4 at the age of 96.
Starks pastored Community Baptist Church in Chester from 1978 to 2009 and later served as pastor emeritus. Before that, he was associate pastor at Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church in Philadelphia. He also dedicated 25 years to the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department, leaving a lasting impact on his congregation and the wider community. “He truly had a heart for the people,” his family said.
Born on November 2, 1928, in Nashville, Tennessee, Starks grew up singing in church under the guidance of his mother’s cousin, a pianist and singer. He later studied voice with John W. Work III at Fisk University. During his ministry, he invited notable figures such as the Rev. Jesse Jackson to speak at the church, bringing national attention and inspiration to his congregation.
Starks founded a Presidents Council to oversee church affairs and championed the church’s role as a Manna Bible Institute satellite campus, marking key milestones such as the mortgage payoff.
After high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1948, serving four years as one of the celebrated Montford Point Marines. During his service, he sang with the Marines choir before transferring to Philadelphia. In 2012, Starks and fellow Montford Point Marines were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their service while persevering through segregation and discrimination.
In 1951, he met and married Inez Baldwin. Together, they had two daughters. Inez preceded him in death in 2016.
After leaving the Marines in 1952, Starks worked at Philco and Whitman’s Chocolates in Philadelphia before dedicating 25 years to the Parks and Recreation Department. Following his pastoral retirement, he volunteered extensively in the community, including at Eleanor C. Emlen Elementary School, sharing his time and guidance with students and neighbors.
Starks received multiple honors throughout his life, including three Chapel of the Four Chaplains Awards in recognition of outstanding service to all people regardless of race or faith, and the Matthew Anderson Alumni Award.
In June, the city of Chester honored Starks with an honorary street sign near Community Baptist Church. The dedication, attended by Mayor Stefan Roots, City Council members, church leaders, and community members, celebrated his role in establishing the Manna Bible Institute satellite campus and mentoring young ministers. The commemorative sign at Fulton and West Seventh Streets stands as a lasting tribute to his leadership.
“We thank God for Pastor Starks’ faithful service, loving leadership, and lasting legacy,” Community Baptist Church said in an online tribute.
He is survived by his daughters, Cheryl and Rhonda; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.
Services were held on October 17 and 18 at Community Baptist Church.
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https://www.phillytrib.com/obituaries/william-b-starks-pastor-emeritus-of-community-baptist-church-dies-at-96/article_c4db0861-95ca-4a5a-b188-3a60565157da.html
