Dorothy Marie Starks

Dorothy Marie Ortega Schostag Starks was Promoted to Glory on January 10, 2026. She retired as a cafeteria employee at Florosa Elementary School. Dorothy dedicated her life to volunteering at The Salvation Army and helping others.

She is survived by her children, Theo Schostag (Teresa), Kathy Nelson (Jerry), Donna Acree, Jessie Chapman (Ken), Joe Starks, Jr (Wendy), and Janice Dahlin (Karl); 21 grandchildren; 49 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; 3 brothers, Abe Ortega, Paul Ortega(Sue) and James Johnson (Vicki); She is preceded in death by her husbands, Joseph Starks, Sr (m1965-2025) and Theodore Schostag, Sr (m1958 - 1964); and daughter; Glenda Voija Starks Lynn Stapleton; sister, Martha Johnson.

A special thank you to her brother’s-in-law and sister’s-in-law for helping to raise this tribe of youngin's, Johnny & Thesa Schostag, Lou & MaryLou Bolin. Jerry & Gladys Schostag, Terry & Sue Schostag, Randy & Sue Schostag, and Delaine Mastin.

Dorothy’s Legacy

Dorothy liked to talk, her laughter filled the air,
She cared for those around her, with kindness and with prayer.
In kitchens warm with memories, her cooking brought delight,
Her dinner rolls remembered, soft and golden, just right.

She taught about Jesus, with wisdom and with grace,
Guiding little hearts and minds to a loving, sacred place.
Her faith was her foundation, her family her pride,
Her church a second home, with Jesus by her side.

At Florosa Elementary, she served with gentle hands,
A cafeteria angel, beloved across the land.
Retired, but remembered, for the warmth she freely gave,
Her legacy of caring, in every life she saved.

At The Salvation Army Corps, her lessons still remain,
In Sunday School she planted seeds that bloom beyond the rain.
Dorothy’s life, a tapestry of love, faith, and care—
A blessing to her family, her church, and all who gather there.

A funeral service will be held at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road Northeast, Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32547 on Monday, January 19th, 2026, beginning at 11:00AM. The Family will receive friends beginning at 10:00AM. Interment will immediately follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery. 

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