Darnelle Jermaine Starks

Darnelle was born on April 22, 1975, to Chester Jackson and Rene Starks in Omaha, NE. At the age of 50, Darnelle passed away in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, on February 6, 2026.

Darnelle was preceded in death by his biological father, Chester Jackson; Great-Grandparents, Ollie and Roberta Davis; Grandparents, Sullivan Starks and Birdie Cole; Aunt, Cathy Starks; and Uncles, Gregory Starks and Nelson Starks.

Darnelle is survived by his loving Mother, Rene Starks; Stepfather, Clifford Hill; Sister, Alicia Glover; Uncle, Dennis Cole; Nephew, Darrell (DJ) Rollen Jr.; three Great-Aunts, and a host of Cousins; who cherished him deeply.

Darnelle grew up surrounded by family who adored his gentle spirit. From childhood, he radiated love, joy, and a natural warmth that made everyone around him feel seen and valued. He attended Omaha public schools and proudly graduated with the Omaha North High School Class of 1994. He later continued his education at Job Corps in Chadron, Nebraska, where he built skills, friendships, and memories that stayed with m throughout his life.

To know Darnelle was to know pure, uncomplicated kindness. He never met a stranger—only future friends. Within moments of meeting him, you felt welcomed, appreciated, and uplifted. He was God-fearing, funny, and found happiness in the simple pleasures of life, especially riding the city bus, where he often made someone’s day a little brighter.

Darnelle’s generosity was not a trait—it was his purpose. He gave freely, joyfully, and without hesitation.

As a son, Darnelle fulfilled every mother’s dream: loving, loyal, and full of affection. As a big brother, he made sure his sister had what she needed—school supplies, new shoes, and the gentle guidance only a big brother can give. As a big cousin, he was the fun one—the one who took the kids on bus rides, bought bomb pops and candy, visited the pet store, and made ordinary days feel special. As an uncle, he was the ultimate play-date for his nephew, Darrell “DJ” Rollen Jr., filling their time together with laughter and video games.

Darnelle’s final act on this earth was the truest reflection of who he had always been. Even in his last days, Darnelle still had more to give—wanting to donate his organs so that others could live. His selflessness continues through the lives he touched, both in life and beyond.

Darnelle lived a life defined by love, laughter, and generosity. His legacy is one of compassion—a reminder that even the simplest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact. He gave everything he had, and in doing so, he gave us all a beautiful example of what it means to live with an open heart.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM at Good Shepherd's 90th Street Chapel on Monday, February 16, 2026.