Dear Dames and Knights, 

it is with deep regret that the Magisterial House of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP) announces the decease of Sir Daniel Lee Starks, Knight of the Sovereign Order of Cyprus, who passed away on the 18th February 2022, at the age of 73, in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.

Sir Daniel, who was the founder and president of the Starks Training Institute, Inc. in Charlotte, was known for hosting a long running news series for News Channel 36 (WCNC-TV) “Don’t be a Victim” as well as “Partners Against Crime”. The “Don’t Be A Victim” series helped everyday people by offering them various crime prevention tips and covered a wide range of self-defence topics. His series won an Emmy Award and were nominated for an Emmy ten times. 

Sir Daniel Starks and his life partner, Lady Constance Lynn Smigiel – Dame of Cyprus, believed in personal safety and together they taught self-defence classes as well as firearm safety and carry conceal classes. 

Sir Daniel helped tens of thousands of citizens to empower themselves to have the correct response when things go wrong. He taught law-abiding citizens (incl. teens, families, students, new moms, singles, and senior citizens) to look for the best way to protect themselves. His clients also included agents from the United States Secret Service and FBI, as well as officers from state and local law enforcement. He designed custom self-defence programs for prominent business leaders, politicians, celebrities, and sports figures alike as well. Sir Daniel was ranked as the number one NRA instructor/recruiter in the country in 2009. Furthermore, he was a member of the American Women’s Self-Defence Organization, Infragard, National Range Officers Association and the National Speakers Association. 

On the 12th January 2013 in Charlotte, NC, Sir Daniel Starks was Knighted as Knight of Cyprus in an official Ceremony of Knighthood of KMFAP, led by His Grace Count Sir George Popper, Lieutenant General of the Federation and Executive Grand Chancellor of the Sovereign Order of Cyprus – Knights of Sword and Silence in representation of His Eminent Highness the Prince Grand Master. 

In his personal name and on behalf of all Knights and Dames of our Sovereign Order and State, the Grand Master expresses condolences and support to his beloved wife, Lady Connie and to all the bereaved family at this time of grief.

 23rd February 2022