Samuel Borden Starkey, Sr., beloved father, devoted community member, and generous host, passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on March 8, 1954, in Princeton, New Jersey, Sam lived a life marked by deep affection for family, spirited generosity, and a passion for music, sailing, and tradition.
He was the son of Elizabeth Hance Starkey Cook and Austin C. Starkey, Sr., whose love of travel, music, education, and the sea helped shape the man he would become. Sam attended Princeton Country Day School and was a seasonal student at the Gulf Stream School in Florida. He graduated from The Lawrenceville School, where he discovered a lifelong love of singing through the glee club — an experience he fondly recalled for opening doors to performances (and friendships) at nearby girls’ schools. He also played varsity ice hockey and tennis, reflecting a competitive spirit and deep love of camaraderie. Sam continued singing throughout his life in the choirs at Trinity Church in Princeton and All Saints Church in Bay Head.
Sam earned his degree from Lake Forest College before beginning his career at Gerard Bank in Philadelphia. He later joined Salomon Brothers in New York City, where he was known for his integrity, insight, and sharp understanding of the markets. Drawing on his entrepreneurial spirit, Sam went on to found his own investment management firm, Starkey and Company. Under his leadership, the firm grew steadily, earning the trust of clients who valued his personalized approach and long-term vision. A respected voice in the investment world, Sam was known for balancing analytical rigor with a deep sense of responsibility to those he advised. He retired at 50 to spend more time with his family and pursue his many passions.
A lifelong sailor and proud Fleet Captain of the Bay Head Yacht Club, Sam welcomed all who wished to learn to crew or race. His openness on the water mirrored his life on land — where he could often be found walking the beach inviting friends and strangers alike to impromptu gatherings or hosting joyous celebrations, especially for milestone birthdays.
Sam was a dedicated class agent for The Lawrenceville School and took great joy in seeing his children become fourth-generation students there. Tradition and legacy were deeply held values in his life, reflected in his commitment to his communities and the institutions he loved.
He maintained long-term residences in Princeton, NJ; Mantoloking, NJ; and Gulf Stream, FL. Throughout the years, Sam was an active member of The Bedens Brook Club, The Nassau Club, The Nassau Gun Club, The New York Yacht Club, The Brook Club, The Gulf Stream Bath & Tennis Club, and The Bay Head Yacht Club.
Sam’s love for reading and history informed his rich conversations and wide-ranging interests. A lifelong learner, he believed that curiosity was the key to connection — and he passed that spirit on to his children and friends alike.
He is survived by his children, Emily B. Starkey, Betsy Starkey, and Sam Starkey Jr., all of whom he adored. Though separated, he held enduring affection for his former wife, Emily W. Starkey. He is also survived by his brother, Austin C. Starkey Jr.; daughter-in-law, Anna Hayne Starkey; and grandchildren, Rett and Hallie Starkey. He was predeceased by his brothers Ross Hewson and William Hewson.
Sam’s warmth, humor, talent for dancing, and love for bringing people together will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. His legacy is one of deep love, community, and joyful generosity.
A service celebrating Sam’s life will be held later this summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the New Jersey Museum of Boating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.
