Ralph Sterling Obituary

Ralph Leon Sterling passed away Wednesday October 9th, 2024. Ralph was born February 19th, 1932, the third son of Ora and John Sterling. His two older brothers were Robert and Eugene. He was followed by one younger brother, David. He was born in Ridgeville, Indiana and moved to Lynn, Indiana when he was five years old.

Ralph Sterling attended Lynn's public schools where he participated in the baseball and basketball teams. He became an expert in baseball rules and began coaching the sport that he loved. Ralph graduated from Lynn high school in 1950 with honors. He enrolled in Franklin College where he graduated from in 1956. He later earned a master's degree from Arizona State University.

Ralph began his teaching career upon reaching his academic goals. He taught math and science in Lynn, Indiana and Columbia, Missouri. Ralph was happy to be back in "his" school and became a teacher to his friends' children. Ralph was a talented, accomplished teacher who was adored by his students.

Ralph married Beverly Hendrickson in 1955, and started a large family including four children, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Ralph was a beloved uncle and great uncle to a large extended family.

Ralph and two friends formed Clairmont Press, a company which produced history books. Today Clairmont Press is one of the largest history textbook publishers in the country. Clairmont Press focuses on history books for Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and West Virgina.

Ralph was an avid history lover who traced his genealogy back through the generations. His genealogy research spanned centuries and extended all the way to Scotland and Northern England. Of particular interest to him were historical sites such as Windsor Castle, Tewksbury Abbey, and Stirling Castle.

Ralph also enjoyed playing golf, spending time with his family, and traveling.

Ralph Sterling is survived by his wife and best friend of seventy years, Beverly Sterling. Ralph is also survived by his son Michael Sterling (Kim), daughter Leann Keenan (Colin), and son Craig Sterling (Penny).

Ralph is survived by grandchildren Megan Sterling, Meredith Dillarelo, Andrew Sterling, Ryan Sterling, and Melanie Sterling. Ralph is survived also by 3 great grandchildren.

Ralph is survived by one brother, David Sterling.

Ralph is preceded in death by parents Ora and John Sterling along with his two older brothers Robert and Eugene Sterling. Ralph is also preceded in death by his son Joe Sterling.

Ralph was cremated by Neptune Cremation Society. No services will be held.