AS WE REFLECT…on a notable life, we think of what the Bible teaches us in 2 Corinthians 5:8, “…to be absent from the body is to be present with the LORD.” Renee was wonderfully and marvelously made by the LORD to grace this earth on January 29, 1962. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, the second child to Carolyn and Robert Starghill, Sr.  Renee’s life purpose was evident and present in everything she did and witnessed by everyone she met and befriended. As a child, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior. Throughout her life, church and her personal relationship with Christ were paramount. One ministry goal Renee cherished was becoming a certified John C. Maxwell’s “Leadership Gold” training team member in August 2017.
 

Renee received her primary education in the Detroit school system graduating from Mumford High School in 1980. She obtained an Associate degree in Human Resource Management and Personnel Administration from Community College of the Air Force, Maxwell AFB; Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from University of Maryland, European Division and, a Master of Business Administration degree from Webster University, Bolling AFB.

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Renee joined the United States Air Force in October 1983 attending Basic Training at Lackland AFB, Texas. She took great pride in her military career. Her military education included Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Royal Air Force, Upwood, England and Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama.  She served as Personnel Manager, Executive Assistant to the Vice Chief of Staff, Command Chief Master Sergeant, and Chief Enlisted Manager. During her military career, she was assigned to Mississippi, Texas, Washington DC, Virginia, Netherlands, Alaska, Germany, and South Korea. She earned various honors and awards including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award and many other commendations and citations. She achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (top percent of all noncommissioned officers) and become one of only twelve people considered for the top position of Chief Master Sergeant, entire Air Force.  Renee retired after 28 years of selfless service to her country.  Her distinguished leadership and military career were featured in the book, “American Women Leaders”  by author Carol Hooks Hawkins.

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After retirement from active-duty Air Force, she continued to work for the Department of the Air Force as a General Schedule (GS) employee. She served faithfully in this capacity until her transition.

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 Many may not remember the date of her birth or the date of her being called home to be with the LORD, but what they will remember are all of the special times shared with Renee during her lifetime, the times of a joyful childhood, being a spirited giving young girl, and a focused and enduring woman…daughter, sister, aunt, and loyal friend.  All have been graced by her unforgettable lasting presence.

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 On Friday, March 25, 2022, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom very gently and tenderly closed the eyes of our beloved Renee. She was preceded in death by her father, Pastor Robert Starghill, Sr.; stepmom, Mother Betty Starghill; sister, Tameka Starghill; brother, Pastor Britt A. Starghill, and niece, Necole Boozer. Renee leaves to rejoice her homegoing, her deeply loved mother, Carolyn Foy; sisters, Chantay Blankenship, Detroit, MI; sisters Janet (Mark) Smith, Indianapolis, IN; Karen Boozer, Statesboro, GA; Dinah (Charles) Barnett, Detroit, MI; April L. Starghill, Detroit, MI; sister-in-law, Catherine Starghill, Camden, NJ; brother, Robert (Rhonda) Starghill, Jr.; nieces and nephews, Krystal Starghill, Teontae Blankenship, Dymond Blankenship, Chase Starghill, Mark A. Smith, Jr., Nechelle Boozer, Kimmey Boozer, Alvin Shazier, Jr., Apryl Shazier, Britt Starghill, II, Brie Starghill, Rachel Starghill, Robert Starghill, III; and myriad of other dear relatives and friends.

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Renee also leaves to cherish her memories some very loyal friends, namely Kim Simmons of Detroit, MI, Denise Moore of Coatesville, PA, and Zenda Barnes of Conyers, GA, Felecia Dunn of Williamsburg, VA Michael Clemons of Woodbridge, VA.  Her memories are etched in the minds and hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of love, compassion and the value of friendship shall live on through the lives of her family and friends.