The Tennessee General Assembly approved a resolution sponsored by Senator Todd Gardenhire honoring the memory of former State Representative Paul Starnes. A 1953 graduate of Central High School, Mr. Starnes went on to Hiwassee College, Tennessee Wesleyan and the University of Chattanooga before pursuing a career in the field of education. He passed away on Jan. 9.
“Paul Starnes was an exemplary public servant and consummate professional who worked assiduously to improve the quality of life for his fellow citizens in numerous capacities,” the resolution reads.
Mr. Starnes worked for the Hamilton County Department of Education in numerous capacities, was dean of students at Hiwassee College, assistant principal at East Ridge Junior High School and a teacher at McMinn County and East Ridge High Schools. He served on the Education and Education Oversight Committees during his tenure in the Tennessee House of Representatives and received numerous education honors, including receiving Tennessee’s Most Outstanding Teacher Award.
The resolution also plays tribute to his work in healthcare as he served as Chairman of the General Welfare Committee while in the General Assembly and took an active role in committees studying Medicaid, drug and alcohol abuse, medical malpractice and indigent care.
Mr. Starnes was a member of various professional and public service organizations. These included the Kiwanis, Vocational Guidance Committee, Phi Delta Kappa fraternity, Tennessee and National Education Associations and the Tennessee Association of School Supervisors. He was also a member of the McFarland United Methodist Church where he served on numerous boards and committees.