Jessica Denise "Niecy" Starke, a devoted mother, sister, auntie, niece, and cherished friend, peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital surrounded by family. Born March 27, 1970, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of Linda Starke Ashe and bonus daughter of the late Robert Allison Ashe.

Jessica was reared by her maternal grandmother, the late Pinkola Lashley Starke. She was preceded in death by her papa, the late Willie Carter; and uncle, the late Robert Starke.

Jessica's pride and joy was being a loving mother to her son Damien Jamel Thacker. She made it known to everyone, even in her final days, he was her baby.

She was a  proud graduate of Northwest High School graduating class of 1988. She went on to continue her education at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, majoring in Computer Science, graduating in 1993.  She began her 20-year professional career with Guliford County, Greensboro, North Carolina. She was a member of Union Baptist Church, Winton-Salem, North Carolina.

She enjoyed resting on her days off as well as spending quality time with her favorite guy (Damien Jamel Thacker). If she had free time, it was not just hers, it was theirs. She also, cherished being a special Aunt to Tamika Ashe, which they spent time together, laughing, talking and challenging each other even in her final days.

She is lovingly survived by her devoted son: Damien Jamel Thacker; her mother and best friend, Linda S. Ashe; uncle, Earl C. Starke; siblings: sisters, Lori Parrott, Ellen Johnson (Richard), and Christine Henderson; brothers, Micheal Ashe (Tonya) and Richard Ashe (Sharon); a special Niece, Tamika Ashe; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

Jessica Denise Starke lived a full life marked by the love for her son and care for her family. Her legacy will continue to shine brightly through the many lives that she touched.  She will be missed especially by her mother, son, and those who loved her.

A viewing will be held from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Russell Funeral Home Inc. 822 Carl Russell Avenue, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.