Marva Starks

Early Life & Family

Marva “Penny” Rowena Harris Starks, born on Thursday, April 29, 1940, in Nashville, Tennessee, was the beloved daughter of the late parents Charles & Lucile Harris Sr. Raised in a home rooted in faith and song, she developed an early love for learning and music—gifts that would guide her through every season of her life.

Career in Education

Educated in the Nashville public school system, a graduate of Pearl High School in 1958. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tennessee, a Master’s degree from Tennessee State University, and a Masters+ from Trevecca Nazarene College. Before retiring, she devoted her career to shaping young minds as an educator in the Metro Public School system. Her influence extended beyond academics, as she modeled discipline, compassion, and a love of learning to countless students whose lives she touched.

Early Musical Roots

As a young adult, she and her sister Emily discovered their shared gift of song. Together, they joined The Gospel Cords, a group cherished for their heartfelt harmonies and uplifting spirit. Their music became a source of encouragement and inspiration to churches and communities.

A Second Season in Gospel Music

After retiring from education, she stepped into a new season—one of music and ministry on a national stage. She became a member for 20+ years with the award-winning and Grammy-nominated Bobby Jones and the Nashville Super Choir, where she traveled throughout the United States and the world, including Italy, France, England, and Jerusalem.

During this time, she, her sister Emily, Dr. Bobby Jones, and the Super Choir were also featured in the motion picture Sunny. This moment highlighted not only her musical gifts but also the recognition of gospel music’s impact in popular culture.

Her ministry in music also left a lasting mark on her local church community. She was the voice of the Pentecostal Tabernacle church’s radio broadcast under Dr. Jonathan Greer, remembered for her stirring introduction, “This is the Showers of Blessings.” In 2012, she and her sister lent their voices to a project CD under the leadership of the now Bishop Jerry L. Maynard, continuing her legacy of gospel music that inspired generations.

Faith & Ministry

A member for over 50 years with Cathedral of Praise, Church of God In Christ (formerly Pentecostal Tabernacle). Her faith was the anchor of her life. She served the Church of God in Christ with steadfast devotion, answering the call to leadership as a District Missionary in two Ecclesiastical Jurisdictions — Tennessee Central, under the late Bishop W. L. Porter, and Tennessee Fourth, under the leadership of Bishop J. L Maynard. Subsequently serving as Commissioner of Education for Tennessee 4th. In these roles, she labored tirelessly to encourage women, support pastors, and strengthen the work of the church, a testament to decades of faithful service.

Legacy of Love & Creativity

She will be remembered not only as an educator and singer but as a woman of creativity, warmth, and grace. To many, she will forever remain “The Grand Missionary”—a title that reflects both respect and affection for a life lived in dedication to God and His people.

Her demeanor was as striking as her voice; she carried herself with elegance, whether she was speaking or simply walking into a room. She was also a gifted storyteller, captivating listeners with accounts from her journeys and experiences. People gravitated toward her naturally, drawn by her kindness, her charm, and the effortless way she made everyone feel valued and seen.

Her life reflected many seasons, each marked by service, song, and love for others. She leaves behind a legacy that continues to echo in the lives of her family, friends, students, and congregations.

Family & Loved Ones

She leaves to cherish her memory a devoted daughter, Marie DeHaan; sister, Cyntis Short; Nephew, Laval Short Jr.; and Nieces, Marva Short and Cynthia Harris. Brothers “in Love”- Ronnie Garrett & Carl Garrett. My Dear Church Sisters: Janice Kelly, Ester Mitchell, Jean Giles. God Daughters Colita Giles Perkins, Tiffany Martin Tally, Danielle Spencer.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Emily Harris, and brother, Charles Harris.