SANGERVILLE – Willard A. Starbird, 88, died Oct. 5, 2005, at his home in Sangerville. He was born March 21, 1917, in Sangerville, the son of Carroll and Myrtie (Thomas) Starbird. He graduated from Dexter High School and the Maine School of Commerce (Husson College). Willard enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1937 and during World War II served for 23 months in New Guinea and the Philippines, with the 31st Infantry Division, (the Dixie) as one of the few “Damn Yankees”. In the service he progressed from private to captain and was proud of his medals, including the bronze star. Willard owned and operated the IGA store in Sangerville for 25 years, until it was destroyed by fire in 1973. Active in town affairs, he served as selectman, school board director, town manager, and for 25 years had been the chairman of the Guilford – Sangerville Water District. He was the founder and first president of the Sangerville Development Corporation which built the Oakes Manor senior citizens complex. Active in church affairs, he served as treasurer for many years at the Sangerville United Church. He was instrumental in the development of Grace Bible Church, where he was board chairman and elder for many years. He was a past president of the Guilford Area Kiwanis, was a founder and 1st Commander of Stott-Flanders American Legion Post and a past Legion County Commander. His Masonic affiliations began in 1946 at Abner Wade Lodge No. 207 where he served as master in 1954, 1955, 1957 and 1958. Willard served as district deputy grand master of the 5th Masonic district, the High Priest of Piscataquis Chapter No. 21, and for many years as treasurer of Central Council No. 18. He joined St. Johns Commandery in 1967 and Anah Shrine in 1968. Willard was a charter member of the Past Master’s Unit, enjoyed working degrees throughout the northern jurisdiction, and was treasurer since 1989. He was initiated into Tamerlane Conclave in 1983 and served as Sovereign in 1992. In 1993, he was appointed to the line in the Imperial Council and served as Grand Sovereign from 2004 to 2005. He is survived by his wife, Dolores (Dellaire) Starbird of Sangerville and her children, Jeffrey Edes and his children, Michael and Alex, Mark Edes, Chris Arsenault and his wife, Susan and their children, Caleb and Colby; a son, Dr. Dannel Starbird and his wife, Sherri, of Dover-Foxcroft and his children, Dane Starbird and his wife, Jessica, Sarah Allen and her husband, Trevor and their son Griffin, Levi Starbird, and Katherine Starbird, as well as Sherri’s children, Meghan Hamilton and her husband, Mike Yallen and Travis Hamilton; and a son, Derrel Starbird and his wife, Jacqueline, of Dover-Foxcroft; several nieces, nephews and cousins including a special cousin, Charles Starbird. He was predeceased by his first wife of 54 years, Louine (Hussey) Starbird; four brothers, George, Gene, Abner and John; and is survived by their wives, Gardis, Gladys and Dora. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at Grace Bible Church in Sangerville, with Pastor David Kelly officiating. A graveside committal service will be held 3 p.m. at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Dexter, with members of Abner Wade Masonic Lodge and members of the Stott-Flanders American Legion Post assisting. Arrangements by Crosby & Neal Funeral Home in Guilford. Due to allergies, the family asks that flowers be omitted. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make donations in Willard’s memory to Grace Bible Church, P.O. Box 157, Sangerville, ME 04479. <
WILLARD A. STARBIRD
