Richard "Dick" Starnes

Richard “Dick” Starnes, born August 25, 1945, in Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on March 30, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Dick was known for his kindness, steady positivity, and the quiet way he made others feel seen and valued. A true gentleman, he approached life with warmth, curiosity, and an easy smile.

A lifelong Tar Heel, Dick attended the University of North Carolina, where he served as head cheerleader, helping bring energy and spirit to campus. During his time there, he had the unique opportunity to meet with legendary coach Dean Smith to plan pep rallies, and he proudly attended the Final Four—an experience he always cherished. While his Carolina blue loyalty never wavered, he could occasionally be spotted wearing a Duke baseball cap—but never on game day—in honor of his granddaughter Alex, a Duke graduate.

Dick went on to build a long and successful career in corporate America, working in sales and management. He had a natural gift for conversation and connection and genuinely enjoyed getting to know people from all walks of life. That gift stayed with him into retirement, when he became an Uber driver—something his family fondly joked gave him a “captive audience” to do what he loved most: talk, listen, and connect.

Dick had a deep love for travel and adventure. He explored the world with enthusiasm—taking many trips to Mexico, embarking on more than 50 cruises around the globe, visiting Europe on multiple occasions, and experiencing one of his favorite adventures: an African safari. Dick and Carol also cherished their time living in Colorado, where they took many day and weekend trips exploring the state.

Dick was active and ran cross country in high school and college. He was a long-distance runner for most of his life. He was a great skier and loved his time skiing in the Colorado Mountains. The last time Dick skied was when he was 72 with his grandsons Peyton and Connor, and his son-in-law John FitzGerald.

He also appreciated life’s simple pleasures, never passing up a good cup of coffee, a delicious plate of pasta, or a great glass of red wine.

Outside of his travels, he could often be found keeping a close eye on the stock market, always interested in what was happening in the world. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Dick had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved dogs, Bella and Bentley. He spent many hours volunteering at the Dumb Friends League Pet Shelter in Denver, Colorado.

He is survived by the love of his life, Carol, to whom he was married for 40 years; his three daughters, Kim Bay; Courtenay Bumpas (Geoff); and Gretchen FitzGerald (John); his five grandchildren, Peyton, Connor, and Ava FitzGerald, and Alex and Kai Bumpas; and his sister, Vicki Cadoret. Dick and Carol were truly perfect for each other and brought out the very best in one another.

Dick had a strong faith throughout his life, which guided him and brought him comfort in times of both gratitude and distress. While in the hospital, he would look at the crosses in his room and place his hand over his heart.

Dick will be remembered for his kindness, his positivity, and his genuine interest in others. He leaves behind countless conversations, friendships, and memories that will be deeply missed.

We are so thankful for the care that was given while at St. Lukes and Kansas City Hospice House. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Kansas City Hospice House in honor of Dick Starnes. Donate - Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care

A service will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 10 AM at Church of the Resurrection in the Wesley Chapel,13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas. Following the service, please join us for a celebration of life at Gretchen and John’s home, 15 E. 53rd Street, Kansas City, MO 64112.