Margaret Ann (Bass) Starling

Clinton
 
Mrs. Margaret Ann Bass Starling of Clinton, NC passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Harnett Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dunn, with her family by her side.

Born in 1942 in Sampson County, Ann was the third of the “Five Bass Girls,” daughters of the late Granville Talmadge Bass and Cuma Jackson Bass Carter. She was the lifelong, loving wife of her forever sweetheart, Marvin Emerson “Bud” Starling.
 
Ann was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She dedicated her life to serving others. She was a faithful member of Grove Park Baptist Church, where she poured her heart into the children through teaching Sunday School and volunteering in the nursery. She retired from Clinton City Schools after many years in the library at Butler Avenue School, where she touched the lives of countless students. Known for her kindness and warm smile, Ann never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. She loved cooking for her family, spending time with her grandchildren, and sharing her famous chocolate-covered peanuts with neighbors and friends.
 
Ann is survived by her son, Marvin Christopher Starling, and daughter, Leslie Ann Starling Byrd (David), both of Clinton; four cherished grandchildren: Joshua David Byrd (Jacklyn), Luke Starling Byrd (Summer), Anna Quinn Starling Dement (Alec), and Rebekah Ann Byrd; and one great-granddaughter, Etta Lillianne Byrd. She is also survived by two sisters: Kaye Bass Bryan of Asheboro and Vicki Bass Britt (Danny) of Clinton; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends whom she loved deeply.
 
In addition to her parents and husband, Ann was preceded in death by her sisters, Patricia Bass Shipp and Faye Bass McCullen, and her stepfather, Robert Carter.
 
Above all, Ann will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her joyful spirit, and her servant’s heart. Her legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.
 
Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 18, at 11:00 a.m. at Grove Park Baptist Church, with Rev. Jonathon Shattuck, Rev. Michael Shook, and Rev. Mark Fields officiating. Burial will follow at Grandview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Grove Park Baptist Church sanctuary, and at other times at her home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital or Grove Park Baptist Church’s Building Fund. Many special thanks are extended to the most incredible home caregivers and the caring staff of Harnett Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dunn.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.royalhallfuneralhome.com

Royal Hall is honored to serve the Starling family.