James M. Sterling

James Murphy Sterling, 71, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away on July 28, 2023, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, FL.  He was born January 9, 1952, in Lafayette, Indiana to the late Polly Jane (Murphy) Sterling.

He grew up in Danville, graduating with the class of 1970.  He went on to study geology at Yavapai University in Arizona and worked for nine years as a geologist. He lived a wonderful and exciting life, as close to the edge without falling off.  James had his private pilot's license, and also his private pilot instructor's license, and loved to fly.

James is survived by his loving, significant other, Elaine Pike of Pensacola, FL, and his grandson, Gavin Sterling of Avon, In. He also leaves behind many dear friends. He lost his close son, Shane Sterling in 2019.

Visitation will be Friday, August 18, 2023, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Helton and Harris Funeral Home, 102 S. Indiana St., Danville, In. 46122.  A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Mt. Pleasant Greenwood Cemetery.  Online condolences may be offered at www.heltonandharrisfuneralhomes.com.