JOSEPH LEE STARRETT

Joseph Lee Starrett, 79, of Pine Knot, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on October 6, 2026. He was born on May 31, 1947, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Joseph was a one-of-a-kind man who lived life with a true spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for the world around him. He greatly enjoyed the outdoors and especially loved fishing and hiking. Whether he was following a trail, spending time beside the water or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Joseph found happiness in the freedom and adventure of the great outdoors.

Joseph also had a passion for history and the stories held within old and unusual things. He loved collection old, rare, and unique treasures, finding beauty and meaning in things that others might overlook. His collections reflected his curiosity and appreciation for the past.

Perhaps nothing captured Joseph’s adventurous spirit quite like his love of the railroad. He spent many years riding trains across the country, traveling wherever the rails would take him and creating memories along the way. His long history of riding the rails earned him the affectionate nickname “Smokin‘ Joe.” His love for the railroad was such an important part of his life that he was awarded a certificate recognizing him as “Railroad Royalty.” It was a fitting honor for a man whose life was so closely connected to the rails and the adventures they brought.

Joseh will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love of the outdoors, his passion for fishing and hiking, his fascination with history and rare treasures, and the countless stories he gathered throughout his life. His unique personality and the life he lived will leave memories that his family will carry with them for generations to come.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Beverly and Ralph Starrett his brother, Kim Starrett, his son Joseph Lee Starrett, Jr, and his granddaughter, Amber Randalyn Duncan (Koger).

He is survived by his loving family, including his daughter, Tina Dunn (Starrett), and Brandon Duncan of Strunk, Kentucky, his son, Chad Starrett and Tami of Pine Knot, his grandchildren, Cody Starrett and Stacy of Pine Knot, Brandy Day and Anthony of Parkers Lake, Kentucky, River Duncan and Skye of Lily, Kentucky, Cassidy Joseph “CJ” Starrett of Ohio, Trent Starrett of Ohio, Ryan Starrett of Ohio, Jordan Starrett of Ohio, Cheyenne Starrett of Somerset, Kentucky, Jonathan Starrett of Pine Knot, Zach Starrett of Pine Knot, and Jonah Starrett of Pine Knot, Ian Duncan and Brandi of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, along with several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Joseph is also survived by his brothers and sisters; Roger Starrett and Carol of Ohio, Debbie (Starrett) of Ohio, Guy Starrett and Alexis of Ohio, Dewayne Starrett and Margaret “Peggy” of Ohio and Cindy Starrett of Ohio.

Joseph’s family will celebrate his life at a later date. Details will be announced once plans have been made.

Pine Knot Funeral Home assisted the family with funeral arrangements.