Jessie Mae “Chubby” Starnes, age 80, passed away on February 19, 2026.

Jessie Mae “Chubby” Starnes, age 80, of Rogers, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on February 19, 2026. She passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Circle of Life in Bentonville, Arkansas.

She was born on July 29, 1945, in Rogers, Arkansas, to Manuel and Hattie (McCombs) Cotton.  On July 31, 1971, in Exter, Missouri, she was united in marriage to James Starnes, who preceded her in death. Also, preceding her in death were her parents; infant brother, Lazern Cotton; brothers, George Cotton, Ted Cotton, and Charlie Cotton; sisters, Hazel Bean, Margie Johnson, Gracie Pace, and Barbara Roberts.     Though her departure leaves a void in her family, Jessie's memory will be forever cherished by the numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who survive her.

Jessie spent her early years in Rogers, where she attended local public schools. In 1971 she married James and moved to Exeter, Missouri, a place that would become a significant chapter in her life. For over 32 years, Jessie worked for Tyson Foods in Monett, Missouri, before retiring. In 2021, she moved back to Rogers.  

She had a passion for the excitement of casinos, the comfort of family gatherings, and the simple pleasures of talking on the phone and playing on her tablet. Her nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews were the light of her life, and she treated each one as if they were her own children, showering them with love and attention. Jessie was a member of the Church of Christ in Exeter. 

Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville, Missouri. Pastor Perry Morgan will conduct the services. Burial will be held at Maplewood Cemetery in Exeter, Missouri.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

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FOHN FUNERAL HOME
Cassville, Missouri
417-847-2141