Sterling Angus Smith

Sterling Angus Smith, of Clifton, Texas, lived a full and meaningful 90 years before peacefully ascending to heaven on Monday, October 5, 2026. In his final days and moments, he was surrounded by those who loved and cherished him. Though his passing leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of those who knew him, his life was filled with love, laughter, and memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

A funeral service will be held at Marshall and Marshall in Hillsboro on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with the service immediately following.

Sterling was born on September 21, 1936, in McLennan County, Texas, to Sterling Colquitt Smith and Ila Mae Smith (Hill). He grew up alongside his older sister, Ruth Lanoe Smith, on the family ranch, where they raised Quarter Horses, cattle, and hogs. These early years helped shape the hardworking, strong-willed, and steadfast man he would become.

Sterling graduated from Clifton High School in 1955, where he served as treasurer of the Future Farmers of America and participated in Air Force JROTC. He continued his education with the Tarleton Cadet Corps, where he was appointed Cadet Sergeant First Class in recognition of his leadership, knowledge, and proficiency in military subjects, as well as his academic standing. He went on to study Agriculture at Arlington State College before completing his education at Texas Tech University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Economics.

Sterling proudly volunteered to serve his country in the United States Air Force during the Cold War and Vietnam War eras. His military service took him overseas to various duty stations, providing him with experiences and adventures that would become the source of many of his favorite stories. He was honorably discharged in 1965 from the 4780th Flying Training Squadron, Air Defense Command, at Perrin Air Force Base in Sherman, Texas, holding the rank of First Lieutenant.

It was at Perrin Air Force Base that Sterling met Geraldine Stach, who would become his beloved wife of 50 years. They married in 1966, raised a son, and built a life together filled with love and shared memories. Following his military service, Sterling began a career with Merrill Lynch as an account executive. He retired in 1991 after 25 years of dedicated service, earning a place in the company's Quarter Century Club.

Those who knew Sterling best will remember him as a selfless, loving, strong-willed, and loyal man. He had a gift for bringing joy and laughter to those around him, whether through a perfectly timed joke, a song with silly lyrics sung just for the kids, or one of the many stories he could tell so well. He enjoyed traveling and loved music, playing his guitar, and singing, and he had a way of making ordinary moments feel special. Above all, he cherished his family and friends. Time spent together, the laughter shared, and the simple comfort of being surrounded by those he loved were among life's greatest gifts to him. These familiar moments, which may once have seemed so ordinary, have now become some of the most precious memories his family will carry with them.

Sterling leaves behind a family and circle of loved ones who will forever hold him close in their hearts. He is survived by his granddaughter, Sara Folsom Thelier, and her husband, Cedric Thelier; his great-grandchildren, Christopher "CJ" Folsom, Dean Folsom, and Isabelle Thelier; his niece, Trisha Chalkley, and her daughter, Madeline Chalkley; his niece, Dee Pritchett, and her daughter, Jessica Pritchett; and his nephew, Lance Stacha.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Geraldine Stach Smith; his son, Mark Smith; his nephew-in-law, Chip Chalkley; his parents, Ila Mae and S.C. Smith; his sister, Ruth Lanoe Smith Stacha; and his later-life love, Darlene Shafer.

Sterling will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Though his time here has come to an end, the love he gave, the wisdom and guidance he shared, and the laughter and stories that brought so much joy to those around him will live on. His legacy is not only in the life he lived, but in the people, he loved and the memories he leaves behind. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family, who will carry his love with them in the days, years, and generations to come.