Rufus Sterling Stokes

Rufus Sterling Stokes, 96, passed away on May 3, 2026. Born January 3, 1930, in Chancellor, Alabama, Sterling was the son of Henry and Maggie Stokes. He began life with the steady values of a farming upbringing in Alabama—values that shaped a lifetime marked by diligence, constancy, and devotion to those he loved.

Sterling served in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1949, answering his country’s call with quiet resolve. In 1958, he established Stokes Plumbing Inc., and through decades of faithful work—continuing until 2017—he built a reputation grounded in reliability and perseverance. His life reflected the dignity of honest labor and the enduring pride of providing for others.

On November 25, 1953, Sterling married Ida Mae Hamby in Brooksville, Florida. Together they raised five children, and Sterling’s deepest commitments were found at home—steadfast in love, guided by Christian faith, and devoted to family. In the ways that matter most, he led by example: with consistency, responsibility, and a heart anchored in what he believed.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ida Mae Stokes; his daughter, Barbara Stokes; his parents, Henry and Maggie Stokes; his sister, Mabel Galloway; and his brother, Virgil “Doc.”

Sterling is survived by his children, Syretha Bates, Karen (Roy) Bates, Sterling (Kim) Stokes, and David (Kay) Stokes; his sister, Virginia Marcus; and his brother-in-law, Randy Hamby. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, with 2 more great-great-grandchildren expected; and many other relatives.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00am-1:00pm, Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Merritt Funeral Home, 2 South Lemon Avenue, Brooksville, FL 34601, where Funeral Services begin at 1:00pm. A Committal Service will follow at Brooksville Cemetery, 1275 Olmes Road, Brooksville, FL 34601.