Rev. Wiliam R. Starr

William Richard Starr was born September 16,1924, in Bedford, Indiana, to Hebert and Eleanor Starr. He was the firstborn of five children. His birth was difficult, and Eleanor feared she might die. Although she was not a Christian, she dedicated Bill to God in desperation.

When he was eight years old, Bill, along with his parents, was baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost during J. L. Patton's revival with Pastor James Davis in Bedford, Indiana. A fervent little boy, Bill testified with anointing at an early age. After he completed high school, he enrolled at Michigan State University. During his first year, World War II began; he was drafted, and served three years in the Air Force.

He returned to Michigan and enrolled at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to compete his education. He married Marian June Anderson, in August 1946 and his first daughter, Marcia, was born in 1947. He graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in History in 1948 and earned his Master’s degree in 1949. He also studied Greek, Hebrew, and ancient literature. He worked for twenty-five years in the Michigan Secretary of State’s office as an administrator in the investigation and driver's license division.

In June, 1951, he took over a prayer meeting from Gus Anderson in Albion, Michigan, and started Christ Apostolic Church with four people. He and Marian June built a thriving church that he pastored for 36 years until his death in 1987. He served as Youth President and sectional presbyter in the Michigan District, and became the Michigan District Superintendent at the age of thirty-three.

Under his leadership the Michigan District broke ground on a 120-acre campground in April 1966. Today the Michigan District’s William R. Starr Camp and Conference Center continues to fulfill his vision to see an Apostolic haven where people can be safe, saved, and renewed, while enjoying Christian fellowship.

He served as the executive presbyter of the eastern zone and chairman of the committee on judicial procedure. He also founded the Apostolic Institute of Development.

William R. Starr was known by the people who knew him best for his passion for people. He cared for the poor and fatherless, had a strong sense of justice, and stood up for those who he believed were treated unfairly. He was known to help anyone—no matter if they were a member of his congregation or not. He was well respected in his community and was a vocal advocate for civil rights and equality. He wrote columns in local newspapers and had a radio broadcast.

Bill and Marian June raised five girls that married five UPCI ministers: Martyn and Marcia Ballestero, Rick and Alexa Olson, David and Rebecca Trammell, Curtis and Priscilla Spears, and Tom and Sara Copple.

At sixty-two years old, he passed away suddenly of a heart attack. He died with his boots on, still pastoring the church in Albion and leading Michigan District as superintendent.