James, or “Kid” as he was loving known was born in Pine Level North Carolina on April 29, 1916.
He worked as a sign painter in Raleigh for many years and joined the Navy during World War 2. After returning home he went into business with his brother Cliff selling magazines across the country. He met and married his wife of almost 60 years, Evelyn Sterling. They became managers of Union Circulation in New York City.
In 1957, many years before organic was popular, he invented a biodegradable, organic cleaning product called “Sterling’s Magic.” He and his brother made the business very successful and it is still being sold today.
He moved to Simi Valley with his family in 1965 and resided there until he moved in with his daughter in VA in 2013.
James was also a very accomplished artist. He produced many paintings, but was most fond of the paintings of the scenes of Hawaii that he painted while spending time at his condo in Maui. Throughout his life he enjoyed, art, 9 ball pool, and golf.
Kid was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn, and all his brothers and sisters, Cliff, Effy, Annie, and Big Jack. He leaves his daughter Teri Beardsley and her husband David. His daughter Suzy Sterling. His son Michael Sterling and his wife Aileen. He leaves 7 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
He was a great man and lived a great life. He will me missed by all.
A graveside funeral will be held on June 8th at 2:00 at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial park in Westlake, CA.
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