Shauda Sharrika Starks

There are some people whose smile can brighten a room before they ever say a word. Shauda Sharrika "Day Day" Starks was one of those people. Her beautiful smile, caring heart, and love for others made her someone who will always be remembered and forever missed.

Shauda was born on April 12, 1985, in Elyria, Ohio, to Michael L. Starks and Vicky D. Martin. She grew up surrounded by family and friends who loved her dearly. She graduated from Midview High School and the Lorain County Joint Vocational School, where she earned her certification in Early Childhood Education. Her passion for children reflected the kindness and nurturing spirit that defined her life. She later became employed with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles in Columbus, Ohio.

At the heart of Shauda's life was her love for her children. Her greatest joy was found in Nyome Johnson, Michael McAfee III, Mikaizha McAfee, and Darshan Norman Jr. They were the center of her world and the reason behind so much of her strength, determination, and unconditional love. She also shared a special bond with her beloved goddaughter, Ja'liyah Walsh, whom she loved dearly.

Shauda cherished the simple moments that made life meaningful—spending time with family, laughing with friends, celebrating special occasions, and creating memories that will remain in the hearts of those she loved. She had a gentle spirit, a compassionate heart, and a way of making people feel welcomed and cared for. Whether through a warm smile, a listening ear, or a thoughtful act of kindness, she touched countless lives.

She leaves behind to celebrate her life and cherish her memory her loving children, Nyome Johnson, Michael McAfee III, Mikaizha McAfee, and Darshan Norman Jr.; her cherished goddaughter, Ja'liyah Walsh; her devoted father, Michael L. Starks; her loving brother, Michael A. Starks; her maternal grandmother, Peggy Gadson; her paternal grandparents, Willie and Willie Mae Starks; along with a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Vicky Martin, and her maternal and paternal great-grandparents.

While our hearts grieve this great loss, we find hope in God's promises and are comforted by the assurance that those who trust in Him are held securely in His everlasting love.

Although her earthly journey ended sooner than any of us wished, the love Shauda shared, the lives she touched, and the memories she created will remain with us forever. While we grieve her absence, we celebrate a life that taught us the importance of family, kindness, and unconditional love.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."  ~  Psalm 34:18 

Forever in our hearts. Forever in our memories. Forever loved.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 12 noon at Brown-Robinson Funeral Home and Celebration Center, 6075 Middle Ridge Rd, Lorain OH 44053. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Lorain.