Dudley Starks, Jr., affectionately known as “Joe Bubbles” and “Uncle Dud”, passed away unexpectedly at Jennie Stuart Health in Hopkinsville, KY, on November 5, 2026. Dudley was born on December 21, 1954, in Webster County, KY to the late Nell Katherine Matchem Starks and Dudley Starks, Sr.
He was a graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School in Gary, IN, and was formerly employed at Gary Works Steel Corporation. Dudley was an avid fisherman. He also loved cars of all makes and models.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Tonya Starks, and infant brother, Ronald Wesley Starks.
Dudley leaves to cherish his memory his uncle, Terry Harrison of Gary, IN; two nephews, Ronnie Starks of Indianapolis, IN, and Darrell Starks of Hopkinsville, KY; his special caregivers, James and Chanta Garrett of Madisonville, KY; his chosen grandmother, Eva Willis of Madisonville, KY; and a very special friend, Bobby Johnson, Jr. of Madisonville, KY.
Visitation will be on Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at Mason and Sons Funeral Home, 409 E Noel Ave, Madisonville, KY 42431.
Funeral Service will be Thursday, November 12 from 1:00 – 2:30 pm at Mason and Sons Funeral Home.
Burial will be held Thursday starting at 2:30 pm at Eastside Oddfellows Cemetery, 805 W. Center St., Madisonville, KY 42431.
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