Robert Thomas Sterling

Robert Thomas Sterling, 48, of Avella, died Friday, April 17, 2015, in his residence. He was born December 29, 1966, in Washington, a son of Robert “Tom” Sterling and Kathleen “Kitty” McCurry Sterling of Washington. Mr. Sterling graduated from Avella High School in 1984. In 1987, he joined the Marines and served until his honorable discharge in 1992. He was awarded the Meritorious Mast (3), Letter of Appreciation, Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal and Rifle Sharpshooter Badge. Mr. Sterling was a member of American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post 175 and enjoyed target shooting, reading and country music. He was Catholic by faith. Surviving are a daughter, Amanda Sterling of Washington; two brothers, Paul Harshall of Bridgeville and Robert V. Sterling of Ohio; five sisters, Brenda McDonald (Randy) of Washington, Lisa McComas (Mac) and Teresa Huseman (Jeffrey), both of Canonsburg, Sheri Quinn and Linda Newman (Dean), both of Ohio; a grandchild, Connor Conley; his former wife, Tracy Piatt; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24th, from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m., the time of service, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Inurnment will follow in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville. Military rites will be accorded graveside by American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post 175.