Robert J. Starkey, age 85, of New Whiteland, passed away Monday, December 29, 2014. He was born October 13, 1929 in Indianapolis to Robert T. and Lucille G. (Osborn) Starkey. Robert was a graduate of Thomas Carr Howe High School with the Class of 1947. Robert married the former Martha Paddock on February 2, 1957 in Florida and she preceded him in death on August 22, 2003. He was a Bus Driver for many years. He joined the National Guard of Indiana in 1954 and served proudly until 1957. Robert was an avid gardener and sports fan. He and Martha traveled everywhere when they could. He was a member of Masonic Lodge Jubilee # 746 and he was a member of the Scottish Rite and the Shrine Club of Indiana. He was also a member of the Greenwood American Legion Post # 252 and a member of Bluff Creek Christian Church.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Beverly McLaughlin; son, Richard (Loreen) Starkey; brother, Jack Starkey; grandchildren Jessica (David) Wingnet and Madie Starkey; great granddaughter, Olive Wingnet; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 2 at 12:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, Greenwood, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. A Masonic Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow the funeral service in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriner''s Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.