Jeri Ann Starkweather was born on December 18, 1951 in Long Beach, Ca. and died on May 11, 2025 in Fresno, Ca. Jeri was a dedicated teacher, loyal friend and nature lover. She graduated from McLane High School in 1970. Her adventuresome spirit led to archaeological digs while a student at Fresno State, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in anthropology in 1974. Jeri began her teaching career in Orange Cove, part of the Kings Canyon Unified School District. In the Fresno Unified School District, she brought a passion for education and high standards as a classroom teacher at Calwa, Susan B. Anthony and Lane elementary schools and Sequoia Middle School. She also was a mentor to new teachers in Fresno Unified, and she shared her curiosity and appreciation of the world's intricacies as a science resource teacher. Jeri forged friendships that spanned decades, her relationships characterized by humor and laughter, shared appreciation for fine wine, and a can-do spirit she displayed as health challenges mounted. She was a brave woman. Jeri is survived by her husband of 34 years, Larry Taylor of Fresno; her sister, Sally Hoagland of Fresno; and seven nieces and one nephew. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Margaret and Robert Starkweather.

A graveside service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025 at Belmont Memorial Park. A reception will follow.