The city of Reading, Pennsylvania, is mourning the loss of two beloved community members this week: Barbara Ann Shuker and Theodore "Ted" Starkey. Both individuals, remembered for their kindness, dedication, and the joy they brought to those around them, passed away in early October 2025, leaving behind legacies that will be cherished by family, friends, and the wider Reading community.
Barbara Ann Shuker, aged 65, died on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at St. Joseph Medical Center, according to WFMZ-TV 69 News. Born and raised in Reading, Barbara entered the world on August 23, 1960, as the daughter of Betty M. (Wealand) and James J. Otto. Her roots in the city ran deep, and her presence was felt through decades of service and involvement. She was the widow of Michael J. Shuker, who passed away just a year earlier in 2024, a loss that her family and friends say she bore with quiet strength.
Barbara was a proud graduate of Reading High School, class of 1979. Not long after, she began a remarkable 38-year career as an optometrist at Pearl Vision Center. Her colleagues and patients alike recall her as a dedicated professional who took the time to listen, offering not just eye care but also warmth and reassurance. After nearly four decades of service, she retired in 2025, having impacted countless lives through her work.
But Barbara’s contributions extended far beyond her professional life. She was a devoted member of Nativity Lutheran Church in Reading and had previously been involved with Hope Lutheran Church. Faith played a central role in her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her to give back. Among her many acts of service, Barbara volunteered for Relay For Life, the community-based fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Friends recall her tireless efforts in organizing teams, raising funds, and supporting survivors and families touched by cancer.
Barbara’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca, wife of Justin Salerno, of West Reading; her son, Adam Shuker, of Reading; her sister, Joanne, wife of John Lucas, of Mohnton; her brother, James Wealand; and her aunt, June Hawkins, of Virginia. In addition, she leaves behind six grandchildren: Gemma Shuker, Jacob Lopez, Luca, Caleb, Ashlin, and Simon Salerno. The family circle, while now missing her gentle presence, remains close-knit, drawing strength from the many memories they shared. Barbara was also preceded in death by her brother, Gary Otto, a loss that shaped her compassionate outlook on life.
Those wishing to pay their respects can attend the viewing on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Feeney Funeral Home in Reading. A religious service will follow at 7 PM. The interment will be private, held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to either Trinity Lutheran Church or Hope Lutheran Church in Reading, honoring Barbara’s lifelong commitment to her faith communities.
Meanwhile, the community also bids farewell to Theodore “Ted” Starkey, who passed away on October 2, 2025, at the age of 57 at Reading Hospital. As reported by Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Ted was born in West Reading, Pennsylvania, the son of Franklin Starkey and the late Rita (Reed) Starkey. He grew up in a family that valued togetherness and community, lessons he carried with him throughout his life.
Ted graduated from Holy Name High School, where he was an active member of the school’s athletic teams. He ran track, threw shot put, and played basketball, forming lifelong bonds with his teammates. Friends remember him as a fierce competitor on the field and court, but also as someone who never failed to lift spirits with a well-timed joke or a playful tease. That sense of humor became his trademark, brightening even the most ordinary days and leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
After high school, Ted attended Alvernia University before embarking on a long and dedicated career as the manager at Fine Wine & Good Spirits. For 35 years, he served customers and mentored employees, last working in June of 2025. Colleagues describe him as a steady hand, someone who could be counted on for advice, encouragement, and the occasional story about his beloved Philadelphia Flyers. Ted’s passion for the Flyers ran deep, and he rarely missed a game—whether in person, on television, or through animated conversations with fellow fans.
Family was always at the heart of Ted’s life. He is survived by his father, Franklin Starkey; his sister, Jennifer Smith; nephews, Riley and Ian Smith; his aunt, Regina Gehris; and uncles Ron, Rusty, Robin, and Rick Reed. Each remembers him for his loyalty, his sense of fun, and the way he made family gatherings lively and memorable. Ted’s mother, Rita (Reed) Starkey, predeceased him, a loss that left a mark on his close-knit family.
To honor Ted’s memory, the family has suggested that memorial donations be made to the Animal Rescue League at 58 Kennel Road in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, or to Friends of Nolde Forest at 3025 New Holland Road in Reading. These organizations reflect Ted’s love for animals and the outdoors, passions that shaped his free time and his friendships.
Funeral services for Ted Starkey will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., located at 739 Penn Avenue in West Reading. Burial will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery, Reading. A visitation will precede the service from 11:00 AM until the time of the service, offering friends and family an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and tears as they remember a life well-lived.
As Reading comes together to remember Barbara Ann Shuker and Theodore “Ted” Starkey, their stories serve as reminders of the quiet impact individuals can have through decades of hard work, service, and simple acts of kindness. Both leave behind not just grieving families, but also communities enriched by their generosity, humor, and steadfast presence. In the words of those who knew them, their memories will continue to inspire and comfort for years to come.