Caliyah Jackson

Cherry Starr

May 02, 1934 - Feb 26, 2024

Birmingham, AL

Cherry Louise Morton, known as Cherry Starr, born on May 3, 1934, in Birmingham, USA, departed this world on February 27, 2024. At the age of eighty-seven, Cherry passed away in Birmingham, the city where she started her remarkable journey. A multiracial and devout Christian, Cherry attended Sidney Lanier High School, Montgomery, shaping the early chapters of her life. She married the legendary football player Bart Starr in May 1954, and their enduring love story spanned over six decades. Cherry Starr, beyond her role as Bart's devoted partner, was a compassionate soul involved in various charitable activities. Known for her love of reading, cooking, and gardening, she was an active participant in her community. Cherry's impact extended to NGOs like Rawhide Boys Ranch, Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation, and Starr Children Fund, the latter being her initiative to support pediatric causes. The couple faced a tragic loss with the passing of their youngest son, Bret Michael Starr, in 1988 due to a drug overdose. Despite the challenges, Cherry and Bart remained dedicated to charitable works, notably supporting Rawhide Boys Ranch. Cherry's strength and resilience shone through, especially during Bart's health struggles, including a severe stroke in 2014. On May 26, 2019, Birmingham mourned the loss of Bart Starr, leaving Cherry to navigate the grief alone. Now, on February 27, 2024, Cherry Starr joins her beloved husband, leaving behind a legacy of love, philanthropy, and enduring commitment. Their contributions to charitable causes and the enduring nature of their love remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing Cherry Starr. May her soul rest in eternal peace alongside Bart and Bret.

Leroy Stover

May 22, 1933 - Nov 01, 2023

Birmingham, AL

In Memoriam: Leroy Stover (May 23, 1933 - November 2, 2023) Birmingham bids farewell to a civil rights pioneer and trailblazer, Leroy Stover, who passed away on November 2, 2023, at the age of 90. His courageous journey as Birmingham's first Black police officer left an enduring impact on the city and the ongoing fight for racial integration. Born on May 23, 1933, in Dallas County, Alabama, Leroy Stover's life was a testament to resilience and commitment to justice. Joining the Birmingham Police Department on March 30, 1966, he shattered racial barriers, becoming the first Black officer to integrate the force. Over his 32 years of dedicated service, Stover rose through the ranks, retiring as a deputy chief in 1998. Stover's remarkable life began as the valedictorian of the 1952 graduating class at Shiloh High School in Selma, Alabama. He served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, from 1952 to 1953. Facing rejection, racism, and segregation, Stover's journey epitomized triumph over adversity. In 1963, amidst the civil rights-focused Birmingham Campaign, the demand for integrating Black police officers gained momentum. Stover's historic entry into the force, despite racial abuse and challenges, marked a turning point in Birmingham's history. In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, the West Precinct station was dedicated to Leroy Stover in 2015, honoring his legacy as a symbol of courage and justice. A viewing will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 12:00 Noon to 3 p.m. at Boutwell Auditorium, 1930 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 10, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Antioch Missionary Baptist, 400 Milstead Road, Fairfield, Alabama 35064. Interment will follow on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 12:30 PM at Alabama National Cemetery, 3133 Highway 119, Montevallo, Alabama 35115. Leroy Stover's legacy will forever shine as a beacon of courage, perseverance, and justice in the heart of Birmingham and beyond.

Bill Burgess

Jan 25, 1941 - Dec 12, 2023

Birmingham, AL

Bill Burgess, former Jacksonville State football coach, passed away on December 13th, 2023, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on January 26th, 1941, in Birmingham, he was 82 years old. His son, Rick Burgess, confirmed the news on Facebook. Expressing gratitude for the man known not only as a coach but also as a husband, father, and grandfather. Coach Burgess led Jacksonville State from 1985 to 1996. Achieving significant success, including the 1992 Division II National Championship and four Gulf South Conference titles. A distinguished figure, Burgess is a member of the JSU Hall of Fame and Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame. He is also a part of the Gulf South Conference Hall of Fame and Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. In 2010, JSU honored him by naming the field at JSU Stadium Burgess-Snow Field. Before his tenure at JSU, Burgess coached at Oxford High School for 14 seasons. Thus achieving notable success with a 107-41-4 record and eight AHSAA playoff appearances. A graduate of Jones Valley High School and a football letterman at Auburn University. Coach Burgess left an indelible mark on JSU's football legacy and the lives of his players. The JSU community mourns his loss, recognizing his impact on the program and the character development of young men.