Starr McCook

Brenda Starr Upshaw McCook, age 72, passed away on May 28, 2026.

Born on September 17, 1953, Starr lived a life marked by faith, love, and devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard Franklin Upshaw and Bertha Hall Upshaw; her husband of 54 years, Arthur Scott McCook; and her brother, Lonnie Lee Upshaw.

Starr is survived by her children: Emily Martin, Cory McCook (Margaret), and Kelly McCook (fiancé, Dan).

She leaves behind her grandchildren: Raelee Martin (fiancé, Austin) and Charlee Gay (Troy); Katelyn McCook, Allen McCook, and Sadie McCook; and Brenley Hiers and Blossom Hiers; along with two step-grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Clara McCook; her sisters-in-law, Donna Lee (Mike) and Amanda Hightower (David), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Although Starr worked outside the home during her early years, her greatest joy and life's work became caring for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, caregiver, and friend whose love shaped the lives of those around her.

Family was at the center of everything Starr did. She treasured family gatherings, holidays, and time spent together. She loved making special treats with her children and grandchildren and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. She enjoyed reminiscing about her childhood and family history and became the keeper of many treasured stories, always willing to share them with those she loved.

One of Starr's favorite pastimes was fishing. Having lost her father at a young age, some of her most treasured childhood memories were the times they spent fishing together. Her love for fishing stayed with her throughout her life and became a gift she passed on to her children and grandchildren, many of whom share that same love today.

Starr loved Jesus, and she loved going to church. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church and found joy in worship and fellowship. She especially enjoyed sharing in the ministry of music that she and Scott loved throughout their years together.

She found beauty in simple things, especially flowers and working in the yard alongside Scott. More than anything, Starr will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her kind heart, and her unwavering love for her family. She never made those around her wonder if they were loved. Her children, grandchildren, family, and friends knew they were accepted, encouraged, and deeply cherished simply for who they were.

A celebration of life service will be held at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Antioch Baptist Church, 2269 Yatesville-Barnesville Road, Yatesville, Georgia 31097, with Dr. Jeffrey Morgan officiating. The family will receive friends during a visitation immediately following the service.

Please visit www.monroecountymemorialchapel.com to express your condolences.

Monroe County Memoria Chapel, 86 West Main Street, Forsyth, Georgia 31029, has charge of the arrangements.