LANCASTER, SC – Mr. Johnny Paul Starr, age 55, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born on February 17, 1970, in Fort Worth, TX, a son of Elsie Etta Andrews Starr and was the husband of the late Laura "Jane" Starr.

Johnny Starr had a huge heart and a spirit that never slowed down. He was the kind of person who stepped in when he didn't have to, giving his time and love freely - whether as a trusted babysitter or when he married Jane and became an amazing, devoted dad.

He loved being outdoors, rarely sitting still, and found joy in nature walks, mountain trips, and fishing. A lifelong animal lover, he especially adored his faithful companion, Walker. He came from a large, loving family and he also built an "adopted family" along the way, welcoming everyone into his life. Well known and deeply loved throughout the Buford community, Johnny had a contagious laugh that was often funnier than the joke itself. If he didn't pick on you, you knew he didn't love you - especially if he called you by your first and middle name.

A motorcycle enthusiast and proud Harley owner, Johnny was never seen without his do-rag and will be remembered for his humor, loyalty, and the unforgettable presence he brought into every room.

He is survived by six of his children, Greg Horton (Ann), Amy Willhite (Jesse Usher), Clayton Otruba (Heather), Emma Willhite and JP Starr (Sarah); his grandchildren, Gabby Shanks, Andrew Horton, Caison and Addison Usher, Nolan and Alyssa Otruba, and Ozzy Ricky Lee Starr and his mother, Madison McManus; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; two brothers, Harold Starr and Jimmy Starr; two sisters, Debra "Aunt Kitty Cat" Starr and Brenda Patton; and his special in-laws, one of which he was especially close with, Dawn Reece.

Johnny was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Starr; three of his children, Andrew Willhite, April Willhite, and Ricky Starr; and a brother, Ricky Lee Starr, Jr.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Burgess Funeral Home, Lancaster, SC.

The Celebration of Life Funeral Service for Johnny will be 3:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2026, at Spring Hill Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC. Burial will follow at Spring Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

It is asked by the family to wear jeans with black and Harley orange, or Harley Davidson attire with a do-rag to both the visitation and service in honor of Johnny.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Burgess Funeral Home, C/O Johnny Starr, P.O. Box 1743, Lancaster, SC 29721.