Starla Kay Triplett Jones was born on August 30, 1955, in Winnfield, Louisiana, to the late Tolbert Triplett and Eula Braden Triplett. She was the eldest of five children born to this union.

At an early age, Starla accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at New Zion Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Flood Jackson. She faithfully served in many areas of the church, including the choir, BTU, Vacation Bible School, and Sunday School. She was also one of the founding members of the Voices of Faith.

Starla received her early education at Pinecrest High School before transitioning to Winnfield Junior High School during the period of school integration. She graduated from Winnfield Senior High School and later attended Northwestern State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree and graduated Summa Cum Laude, a testament to her dedication and commitment to excellence.

On November 10, 2001, Starla united in marriage with the love of her life, Henry Jones. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, family, and mutual support. Starla was a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished matriarch of a blended family. Through her warmth, wisdom, and nurturing spirit, she strengthened the bonds that united their family. Those blessed to be a part of their blended family include Jorron (Misty) Fields, Nichole Davis, Ashanti Jones-Davis (Josh), Kendrick Ball, Henry Jones Jr. (Jaquetta), Sidney Jones (Erica), and Deveney Smith.

A woman of vision, determination, and purpose, Starla wore many hats throughout her life. As an entrepreneur, she pursued her dreams with courage, creativity, and perseverance. As a librarian, she fostered a love for learning and dedicated herself to helping others discover the power of books, knowledge, and lifelong education. She was also a published author whose writings reflected her wisdom, experiences, and passion for empowering others. Her words will continue to inspire generations to come.

Starla was also a tireless community advocate and activist. She played an instrumental role in establishing the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday observance within the Winn Parish School System and helped promote Black History celebrations throughout the community. She believed deeply in justice, equality, and education and worked diligently to create opportunities for others.

Above all, Starla’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith in God and her love for Jesus Christ. She exemplified the values of service, knowledge, compassion, and perseverance. She found great joy in cooking, mentoring and helping others—especially children—and encouraging those around her to pursue their dreams.

Starla departed this earthly life leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service. She leaves to cherish her precious memory her devoted husband, Henry Jones; her beloved sons, Jorron Fields (Misty) of Terrell, Texas, and Sidney Jones (Erica) of Winnfield, Louisiana; her brother, Bruce Triplett (Angela); her sisters, Murdia Rogers, Shirley Triplett, Cynthia Shepherd (Stanley), and Andrea Montgomery (Ty); her godchildren, Amber White and Jaric Eiland; along with her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tolbert and Eula Triplett; her grandparents, Jasper and Luberta Nemons; and her brothers, Tolbert Triplett, Jr., James Holmes, and Bobby Triplett.

Though she will be deeply missed, Starla’s legacy of faith, wisdom, love, and service will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.