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Alphretta Minnie Starks


The Alford family sadly mourns the loss of Alphretta Minnie Starks. She was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 17, 2017, in Detroit, Michigan. She was 85 years old. Services were held at O.H. Pye III Funeral Home in Detroit, Michigan on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.

Alphretta was born to the union of Major and Serverniar Alford Sr. in Vernon, Oklahoma on September 13, 1932. She was the oldest of three children, two brothers Major Jr. and George (who both preceded her in death).

Alphretta accepted Christ at an early age and attended International Gospel Center under Reverend Marvin N. Miles, Pastor. Alpharetta attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Detroit Commerce high School She pursued her secondary education at Wayne County Community College of Nursing School.

Alphretta (Thet) was joined in holy matrimony to the late Otheola Dean where two daughters were born, Nancy Y. Cooper (who preceded her in death) and Roxane S. Moore.

In 1951, Thet started work at the Detroit Arsenal (U.S. Army Tank and Automotive Command) where she met the love of her life, Russell Starks who preceded her in death.

Alphretta retired in 1988. Thet enjoyed bowling, playing bingo and was an avid reader, studying the Bible and doing crossword puzzles. Thet's life was a devoted to friends and family, always sharing and caring for the needs of others.

She is leaves to cherish her memories: one daughter Roxanne S. Moore (Harold), one granddaughter Nancy A. Moore-Clark, one grandson William D. Cooper, three great-grandchildren Jennise, Natalie and William Jr. and one great-great-grandchild Sharvay, and a host of many loving nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Thet is the daughter of Major “Datey” Alford; and Granddaughter of Matthew Solomon Alford.

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