S. Elmo Sterling Jr., age 81, of Hayes, died peacefully at his home on Feb. 25, 2021 surrounded by family. Elmo graduated from Gloucester High School, Class of 1957, and graduated from NASA Apprentice School, retiring from NASA following 38 years of employment. He loved being retired, and “worked” the local yard sales including The World’s Longest Yard Sale; he was an avid turkey hunter, fishing enthusiast, loved metal detecting on the beaches, a daily golf cart trip down to the creek observing the day’s catch but more than anything, his family was first. Parents, Elmo and Lucille West Sterling and son, Bill Sterling, preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Jean; daughter, Jennifer L. Owens (Stephen); grandchildren, Will (Heather), Kristen (Tyler), Jacob (Lindsey), Stephen, Sterling; great-grandchildren, Lexi, Noah, Waverly, Everly, Landon, Rylan, Trevor, Ian; siblings, Linda Kemp, Wayne Sterling, Janice Booker (Al), Dennis Sterling (Robin); sister-in-law, Janet Brown (Richard), and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A graveside service conducted by Pastor Bill West was held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021, at Severn Church Cemetery, 9078 Robins Neck Road, Gloucester, Va. 23061. In memory of our loved one, contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, c/o Nancy Dransfield, 7274 Joseph Lewis Road, Hayes, Va. 23072 or a favorite charity of choice. Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home, Hayes.