Thedas Elaine Starks, 85, of Riverside, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025. She was born on January 1, 1940, in Providence, Rhode Island, and was affectionately known as Elaine to family and friends. She was the daughter of the late George and Rose (Holt) Banks.

Elaine graduated from Classical High School in Providence and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Rhode Island College, followed by a Master’s degree in Education from Providence College.

For over 30 years, she worked as a Special Education Teacher with the Providence Public School Department, focusing on students with severe and profound disabilities/ handicaps.

Elaine was a very respected educator. Teaching was her passion . She used many different teaching methods  to make sure her students achieved . She was kind, compassionate, and generous,  not only with her students but with their families. She will be missed.

Prior to earning her degrees, Elaine worked for several years in the medical records department at Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, RI.

Elaine is survived by her four children: Jonathan Starks of Providence, RI; Paul Starks of East Providence, RI; Jacqueline Starks of Providence, RI; and Kimberly Starks-Mello of Riverside, RI.

She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Alexander Paul Starks and Jessica Elaine Mello.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Frederick Alexander Starks Jr.; her brothers, Neil H. Exum and Donald M. Banks; and Donald’s late wife, Julia M. Banks.

Along with her late husband, Elaine enjoyed frequent road trips to New York City to watch musicals on Broadway, and she loved visiting the bustling boardwalk of Atlantic City.

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