Kristi Johnson Starr
1970 – 2025
Kristi Michelle Johnson was born in Austin, Texas on September 11, 1970. She is the daughter of William (Bill) and Drusilla (Dru) Johnson. She is survived by her husband Brian and their children; Joshua and his wife Katy, Caleb and his wife Caitlin, and Rachel. She is also survived by her brother Brad, by many members of her beloved extended family, and by countless friends.
Attending Pflugerville ISD in her K-12 years, Kristi was known for her kind spirit, sharp intellect, and strong basketball and shot-put skills. She was raised in a close-knit family, with her grandmother, Doris Koonsen, ensuring that the extended family gathered regularly, particularly for robust Easter celebrations. She grew up at the Cameron Road Church of Christ, loved and inspired by many mentors in the faith.
After graduating from Pflugerville High School in 1989, Kristi matriculated to Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, but drove the short way down I-35 to the University Avenue Church of Christ in Austin to broaden her circle of Christian friends. On a Sunday in August of 1989, she met Brian Starr at University Avenue, and they began dating. Following Brian’s graduation from the University of Texas MBA program, the two married on June 13, 1992. Kristi graduated from the University of Texas in 1993 with her Bachelor’s of Arts degree. She then began her high school teaching career right back at Pflugerville High School, teaching English and German with such alacrity that she was awarded Teacher of the Year in 1998.
Kristi and Brian were blessed with three amazing children. Kristi sacrificed early career opportunities to stay at home with the kids during their most formative years and invest her full-time efforts into their spiritual and intellectual formation. Though all born in Austin, they were raised in Lubbock where the family moved in 2003, and they were gifted with a mother who poured faith, love, and learning into them from their earliest days.
Once Rachel reached elementary age, Kristi returned to full-time work at O.L. Slaton Middle School in Lubbock. Having obtained her Master of Library Science degree in 2010 from the University of North Texas, Kristi translated her lifelong love of books into her career pivot to the library. She served as Librarian at O.L. Slaton, Coronado High School, and Mustang High School, and blessed countless young lives with sage counsel on book selection, and a listening ear for those in need. She taught as an adjunct faculty member for the Master of Library Science program at UNT. She also lent her leadership and expertise to professional organizations in her field, serving in multiple leadership capacities at the Texas Library Association and Texas Computer Education Association.
Kristi was more physically fit than almost anyone who knew her. She taught various fitness courses throughout her adult life, touching countless lives in that way. And in her 30’s she became a runner, eventually of marathons. Her favorites were the Disney marathons and the Marine Corp. marathon, but she enjoyed running venues all across the country.
Kristi is a person of deep faith. When Brian took on the campus minister role at the University Avenue Church of Christ and an elder role at the Monterey Church of Christ, Kristi was unfailingly at his side to minister and lead right beside him. After their move to Edmond, Oklahoma in 2023, Kristi and Brian became active members of the Memorial Road Church of Christ, and Kristi’s comments in her beloved Bible class and Small group were always personal and insightful. Thus it seems fitting that after her brutal ten-month battle with cancer, she was taken to the arms of the Lord at noon on Easter Sunday as the Christian world paused to remember that Jesus has risen, death is defeated, and our present sufferings are nothing in comparison to the glory that will be revealed in us. We will miss her more than words can express. But we look forward to the day we will be reunited with her in the presence of the Lord forever.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to Mustang High School in Mustang, Oklahoma, the Memorial Road Church of Christ in Edmond, Oklahoma, or the Monterey Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas.
A reception is being held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family present to honor Kristi on Friday, April 25th, 2025 at Memorial Road Church Of Christ in Edmond, Oklahoma.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 26th, 2025 at Memorial Road Church of Christ in Edmond, Oklahoma.
We will be live streaming this service in an effort to accommodate those people that wish to attend but are not able to. Click on the link to watch the service.
https://www.youtube.com/live/cMitC7bliu0?si=Wy39DtSanTzzuD5t
Brian, Josh, Caleb, and Rachel: My heart goes out to you at this time. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
What a loss! I don’t even know where to begin! Kristi’s heart served the lord every minute I knew her! I got the pleasure to run with Kristi and attend some of her workout classes! Many times she got us through it with prayer! The Starr family has always brought joy through Jesus! Kristi, may you rest in peace and cover us in your sunshine!♥️
What a privilege it is to know, love, and be inspired by Kristi and the Starr family. Their faith stands as a testament to their love of the Father, his risen Son, and His Spirit. We all look forward to seeing her again soon, where there will be no more tears.
I knew Kristi as a mentor and inspiring librarian to all of us who crossed paths with her. As a fairly new librarian she guided me through a class at UNT and continued to keep in touch through email and TLA & TCEA conferences. Thank you, Kristi for a life well-lived! You inspired so many and will continue to leave a legacy with hundreds of librarians and teachers who impact thousands of students… ❤️ All my love, Carolyn Slavin.
I am so, so sad to hear this and I’ll be lifting up your family. I met Kristi when she beat me at the 5K at the Texas Librarian Conference many years ago. 🙂 She was such a neat and inspiring person. Instantly welcoming and energizing. The world lost an amazing woman but Heaven has gained a wonderful soul.
My heart is broken 💔 This is a profound loss for everyone who knew Kristi. She was a gem in our profession and really just the best of us. Brilliant, kind, and beautiful is how I’ll always remember you, Kristi. I’ll miss you tremendously. More than words can say.
Beautiful soul. My heart aches terribly for you and the laughter and joy you so naturally poured out even when you literally almost split my stitches post surgery. Well, you and Mrs. Doubtfire! Thanks for your unconditional, Christlike love and friendship of a lifetime. Sweet memories of you will forever reside in my head and heart in the knowing that you, precious sister, have encouraged my walk with Christ in countless ways from the moment we met. And God willing, if there is cheesecake in heaven, I’m hoping you are indulging in a white chocolate raspberry one! And may there be wide, open spaces to run with ALL the weenie dogs! Love you more than words could ever express.
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
-Winnie the Pooh
She was one of the BEST school librarians I ever worked with as well as a good friend! She will be sorely missed both personally and professionally!!!
Kristi was full of love, life, and unconditional kindness for everyone who was blessed to cross her path. We started our friendship the year I taught Josh, and it grew as Caleb and Rachel crossed my classroom threshold. I will miss her welcoming, I love you smile and warm embraces. I will miss our book talks and humorous conversations. She’s raised some amazing kids who will carry her with them always. Our hearts ache with sadness and pain because Kristi has left us behind to go to our Heavenly home, but we will see her again. My prayers are for comfort, peace, and strength as we celebrate a life that inspired countless people. I love you guys! ❤️
Kristi was the sweetest person. I knew her through BodyWorks in Lubbock and always enjoyed her classes. Prayers for your family as you deal with the loss of a wonderful person.
I will always hold Kristi close to my heart as a compassionate leader who was always there to lend a helping hand whenever someone needed it. I’m genuinely grateful for all the wonderful growth opportunities she provided me as a librarian, and I feel so thankful that God brought her into this world. She is a true blessing to many and will forever live on in the memories of those she touched, as well as in the wisdom they share with both current and future librarians. Love you so much, Kristi. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Kristi’s family. She and I began working together at Coronado High School at the same time. She was always so positive and a blessing to all. I enjoyed comparing running stories with her and hearing about the many Disney runs she completed. She will be missed.
The world lost a great one but heaven is rejoicing. This news makes me so sad and I am so sorry for your loss. I will be praying for comfort for the family.
Kristi was an instructor at BodyWorks when I lived in Lubbock. So cheerful, uplifting and positive!
Prayers for her family.
Praying for the Starr family! The world lost a beautiful soul, but I know that Easter celebration was one for the books because she got to celebrate it in heaven. God be with you all during this time. Thank you, Kristi, for the inspiration, many positive talks, finding me when I got lost in San Antonio trying to find our hotel at TLA all those years ago, and just for being you. You will be missed.
Kristi was my fellow instructor at BodyWorks, Lubbock, the OG. One of the first ones I’ve met when I joined that crew. I’ll always remember her kind heart and positive energy she shared with whomever surrounded her. Comforting to know that she is in the Loving arms of Our Father. Praying for her family!
I remember your family and your mom well from our days at north ridge elementary school in Lubbock Texas. I’m grateful for all the support you gave me with our school animals and now be assured of my prayers and support at this difficult time.
I am so sorry for your loss. Kristy was such a phenomenal person. She helped me more times than I count at Coronado. She was always so positive and encouraging. She will be missed
I went to Pflugerville high School with Kristi. She was the sweetest person. I loved talking to her in the hall. My prayers are with her family. I will see your beautiful smile again Kristi.
Kristi was such an amazing teacher and person. I had the honor of having her for English and German. She was one of the good ones. She will be missed greatly.
I am deeply saddened to hear about Kristi’s passing. She was not only my high school German teacher but also a wonderful friend. Her kindness and positivity touched everyone around her. It was her encouragement that inspired me to continue studying German in college as a science major. I cherish the many good times we shared, especially that memorable car ride to a high school German camp where we sang along to the Eagles the entire way. When we arrived and learned we had to speak only German, we were all a little anxious, but Kristi’s laughter and reassurance made it all okay. Even after high school, I kept in touch with herand cherished my visits, especially after the birth of her first son, Josh. Though it’s been years since we last saw each other, the memories I have of her are dear to me. My thoughts and prayers are with Brian and her three beautiful children during this difficult time. Kristi was truly special, and while the world feels a little dimmer without her, I believe she has brought new light to heaven. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family.
Sending all the love to Kristi’s family. She was such a fun and sweet woman. Truly can’t picture her face without a big smile on it. She was so loved.
I’m so sorry to hear of Ms. Starr’s passing. Ms. Starr was my advisor as I served as a Pflugerville High School senior class officer. She was a kind soul who worked hard to make sure we had a wonderful prom experience. I remember her quiet spirit and her patience. Also, I always thought it was cool that she came back to work at the school where she graduated. I’m glad to hear she lived a full and fulfilling life. I pray her family finds comfort in the knowledge that she blessed the lives of many during her time here on earth. May she rest in peace.
Kristi was a beautiful soul, positive, kind and driven. As her youth minister during her high school years, I learned to appreciate her confident leadership abilities and love for others. I wish peace and blessings on her family.
Dr. Starr
Prayers and condolences.
May God provide you comfort and peace and surround you and your family with immense love.
Sincerely, Chris J. Seigman
This is absolutely heart breaking. Brian and kids, I am so very sorry. Kristi was a powerhouse in so many ways. All who knew her were better off for it. You are in my prayers.
All my love,
Jacqui (Daves) Isser
I knew Kristi first as a parent, and then as a fellow librarian. I loved talking books with her. She was such a smart lady and my heart is broken for her family. She made a lasting impact on so many through her love of books and through her faith.
It’s hard to say this because I’m still in shock, so long my friend. Jesus chose you, I can’t blame him. You are amazing. I just wished our paths were longer. I could have learned so much more from you. I’m just thankful for the path we had together. I hope you knew that you were never far from my heart. I was of truly in awe as awesome you were. I just hope your family knows how dear you were to our life group, the friendship was always love. Starr family, I truly love you guys, I know you are strong. I know your sweet mom and dad, brought you up to be tough, but don’t forget those of us that love you hard. I will say a prayer each and every night to hold you tight. God has her and is letting her watch over you. Love you all.
Mrs Starr worked at Coronado while I attended the school. She was very sweet and uplifting. My heart goes out to the family and friends.❤️
mrs.starr made me feel so welcomed at coronado my heart hurts for her family she was a amazing woman and friend
Kristi was dearly loved by all that knew her at Coronado. She will be missed! My family and I will pray for all of her family and friends. May Christ wrap his loving, comforting arms around you.
I was just a kid when Brian met Kristi. She made me feel like I could enjoy basketball, instead of being too shy to play, and I actually learned to have fun when she was on the court with me. As my sister-in-law, for 32 years she went out of her way to make me feel welcomed and included in everything. She was a shining example of Christ-like behavior, loving and ministering to all. Her short time on this Earth made huge waves for so many.
Very sorry than I can’t make it to the ceremony but I wanted to share with her family how much she meant to my childhood. Frau Starr was my German teacher from 1994-1996. She was a great teacher and I wish I would have kept in touch. Some of my fondest memories of high school involve times during her class. I feel I went through so much during that time frame and I know she played a part in it. She was a special person to me and will be greatly missed.
Kristi was our next door neighbor in Austin. She and Brad were our son, Ryan’s close friends. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. I don’t even know what to say. She was such a sweet person and my heart goes out to her family. I hope she gets to be with her Mom and Dad, who also passed too young.
Alles, Liebe und Gute, Kristi.
We love you dearly. Our hearts ache for you. Much Love – Tia Clary
Mr Star and family I share in the life that I know about Kristi, her caring, smiling, and tender-heartedness. I remember when she and Rachel came to a gathering at my house, she and Rachel left beautiful memories for me and my friends. I Will always remember those things about Kristi. Thank you Mr Star for how you loved and cared for your wife.
Thank you Joshua, Caleb, and Rachel for being who you are for your dad and mother. Please stay close to your dad, friend forever Shirley Cleveland. I love you all. 🙏❤️
I remember having classes with her at UNT and we even worked out a few times at the UNT gym after class. She was a wonderful part of attending UNT for me and an admirable librarian. So sorry to hear that we have lost such an asset to education and Texas.
Wow, how strange and unfair life can be…. Kristi (and family), you all recently crossed my mind and I just decided to look you up. My name is Lou and we were neighbors on Circle Bend Dr. in Austin, TX in the early 2000s. You invited me into your home almost daily to play with the kiddos, for the occasional get togethers/bday parties, and often even took me along to church! Kristi was a kind, loving, patient and wonderful woman. We weren’t neighbors for very long before you all moved away but my memories of her are fond ones and ever present in my childhood. Kristi – I’m sorry for the days I came over and only added to the chaos. If I’m not mistaken there was even a time where we were only allowed to play together outside after some fights and broken items, haha… and even then you always handled us with such grace and love. May you rest in peace!
And I’m so sorry for your loss.