Col Thomas J. Sterling, USAF (Ret)

1925 – 2013

Colonel Thomas James Sterling, USAF (Ret) passed away in Pensacola, Florida on January 19, 2013 at the age of 87. Thomas better known as T.J. was born in Daisietta, Texas on December 24, 1925. T.J. grew up in Houston, Texas, and after college was a member of the Army Air Corps then the United States Air Force until he retired in 1974. T.J. was held as a prisoner of war-POW- in Vietnam for 6 years before being returned safely to the United States to his wife Barbara and 3 children. The Sterling family settled in Fort Walton Beach, FL after tours in both England and France. TJ and Barbara enjoyed traveling in their Airstream trailer every summer all over the continental US and Canada. TJ was an avid member of the Apple Computer Club, Gem and Mineral club, and enjoyed creating dichroic glass jewelry.

T.J. was predeceased by his wife of 63 years Barbara Stephens Sterling, and is survived by his son, Thomas James Sterling, Jr.; daughter, Melissa Sterling Oliver; daughter, Melody Sterling Sanders; granddaughters, Casey Erin Oliver and Amanda Jo Sterling; and his sister, Lovea Thomas.

T.J. touched many lives throughout his life and will be greatly missed by both family and friends. Affectionately known as Papa, T.J. was a wonderful and loving husband, father and grandfather.

The family will receive friends from 5-7pm at Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel on January 31, 2013.

A private family service will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors, at a later date.

BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL, 3351 Scenic Highway is entrusted with arrangements.

Condolences may be offered at www.bayviewfisher-pouchapel.com.