Deborah Jean Starrett
March 18, 1949 — April 30, 2026
Deborah Jean Starrett, age 77, passed away peacefully at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Deborah was born March 18, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa to Milton and Jean (Davis) Keller. She devoted her life to Jesus Christ. Deborah was a Grand Prix race car driver in her younger years, and later in life enjoyed watching NASCAR. She loved boating on the Des Moines River and wintering in South Padre Island, TX for over 20 years with her husband, Jerry. She enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. In her free time, she liked spending time with her family and her friends at the North Side Senior Center.
She is survived by her husband, Jerry Starrett; step-son, Tony (Era) Starrett; niece, Barbra Keller; great-nephew, John Milton; grandchildren, Emily (Schutte) Martin and Jacob Schutte; great-grandchildren, Emmarose Thompson and Thorin Martin; step-grandchildren, Spencer, Courtney, Kane, Terry, Andrea, and their families.
Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Milton Keller; daughter, Alissa Thomas; and her brothers, Van Keller and Kurt Keller.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by funeral service at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, with a reception to follow.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Redemption Life Church, 4148 E 29th Street, Des Moines, IA 50317.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Diana Savage
05/01/2026
Jerry and family. My prayers are with you at this time. So sorry for your loss. She will be singing with the angels now.
Sherry & Brad Strasser
05/01/2026
So sorry to hear of Deb's passing. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed.
Stacy Bjork
04/30/2026
Many thoughts and prayers to the family. Bob and I have many fond memories of Jerry and Deb down at the river. She was an amazing lady and kind soul.