On Oct. 18, 2015, Ken Sterling of Colfax, N.C. and Gloucester, Va., began a new life, at age 71.  Our sadness is his glory. Ken passed away at his home in Colfax with all family showering him with love, as family was most important to him, and he to us. 

Ken lived most of his adult life in Colfax with his wife, Kay, raising his sons there. He loved his community and played an active role in many events. Ken started his business, Sterling Adjustment Co. many years ago and loved every day of his work. He was passionate about helping others whether professionally or otherwise. 

Ken and Kay also maintained a home in Gloucester where he was born and raised. Despite living in Colfax, Ken stayed close to his Gloucester community. He and his family spent many hours on Sterling Creek at Sterling’s Choice. He embraced his heritage and strived to pass along his love of family and friends to his children and grandchildren. He was especially touched by his hometown church, Severn, where he was a member his entire life.

While Ken was a hard-working businessman, husband, father, son, grandfather, brother, nephew, cousin and friend, his passion was his love of his family and friends. He loved life. He never complained and always had time to talk to others, making others feel as if they were the most important person in his life. He was a true Southern Gentleman, with his charm, laughter and wit. Ken would always shower others with kindness, never holding grudges, always forgiving and looking on the bright side. Ken was a giver by nature and could never give enough to help others. He was kind-hearted, loved to fellowship with others and spend time outdoors. He worked tirelessly to see that others were taken care of. He had a gentle spirit and shared it. We are all better because of those gifts he gave.

Ken was predeceased by many he loved so much. They include all of his grandparents, but especially Capt. Jack and Clara Sterling. Also, predeceasing him was his father, John Allen Sterling Jr.; his brother and sister that he loved so much, Allen Sterling and Lydia Hall, and a host of in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Ken is survived by Kay Hartman Sterling, his wife and best friend for 51 years. His pride and joy were his three sons and their families, John Kenneth Sterling II (Susan) of Denver, N.C., Patrick Brian Sterling (Lori) of Colfax, and Paul Hartman Sterling (Brandee) of Las Vegas, Nev. Patrick honored his father with four children (Katie, Loren, Caroline and Patrick Jr.), all of Colfax; and Paul with his daughter Trinity of Las Vegas. They loved their Papaw as he was actively involved in their lives and events. Each of them was his treasure. His enjoyment was spending time with them.

Ken is also survived by his mother, Sadie P. Sterling Williams; his sister, Beth Barry and husband Ed; his brother-in-law, Wilbur Hall, all of Gloucester; sister-in-law; special nieces and nephews, a special aunt, Zane Vincent of Knoxville, Tenn., along with many cherished cousins and friends. There are too many extended family and friends to mention but he wished to let each of them know that he loved them dearly.

The family will receive visitors at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point, on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. Funeral services conducted by the Rev. Bill West will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Severn Church. Ken will be laid to rest in Severn Church cemetery following the service.

The family requests that in Kenneth’s memory, donations be made to Severn Church, 9066 Robins Neck Rd., Gloucester, Va. 23061. Further, it is suggested that in remembrance of Ken, take time for acts of kindness toward others.

Family and friends may share condolences and memories at www.hoggfh.com.