Catherine "Kay" Starkey

It is with deep sorrow, that we announce the passing of Catherine “Kay” Gsell Starkey, 79 years old, and resident of Chestertown, MD. Kay passed away on March 22, 2017, at Compass Regional Hospice in Centreville, MD, due to complications from pneumonia. Kay was born on June 4, 1937, in Chestertown, MD, to Catherine “Kitty” Kramer Gsell and William Henry “Henny” Gsell. Kay was a proud graduate of Chestertown High School and Goldey-Beacom College. Kay drove a school bus for Kent County Schools for a few years, and then owned a Kindergarten. For over 30 years, she was a Social Worker with the State of Maryland’s Department of Social Services. During her years as a Social Worker, Kay was a proud and passionate advocate for those that needed assistance in life’s journey. After retiring from the State of Maryland, Kay was a Court Commissioner and Licensed Realtor for Champion Realty until her passing. Kay especially enjoyed helping first-time homebuyers. Kay was a lifelong resident of Chestertown, MD, and so very proud to call Chestertown home. Kay loved all activities that involved family, friends, and community. She was a fixture on the sidelines or audience at any event in which her sons or grandchildren were involved. She especially enjoyed her beautiful home, gardening, cooking, and, most of all, hosting family/friends. She was a longtime member of the Eastern Star and a lifelong member of Christ United Methodist Church of Chestertown. She was also a proud and active past member of the Kent County Board of Education. Kay is survived by sons, Gregory K. Starkey and wife Isabel of Stevensville, MD, Gary S. Starkey and wife Lisa of Arnold, MD, and William H. “Hank” Starkey and wife Kim of Centreville, MD; grandchildren, Robert Applefeld, Rachel Starkey, Lauren Starkey, Sarah Starkey, Stephen Starkey, and Bryan Starkey; great- granddaughter, Brislin Moon Applefeld; sisters, Joyce Hahnel and Deborah Carter; niece, Trish Benton; and her beloved dog, Mei Leigh. A service will be held on April 8, 2017, at Christ United Methodist Church, 401 High Street, Chestertown, MD 21620, at 11 a.m. A Celebration of Life reception will take place at 12:30 p.m. at Chester River Yacht and Country Club, 7738 Quaker Neck Road, Chestertown, MD 21620. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Compass Regional Hospice, 160 Coursevall Drive, Centreville, MD 21617. Kay lived her life by these three words-- Passion, Strength and Love.

Catherine "Kay" Starkey

June 4, 1937 - March 22, 2017