Memorial for Sterling Smiley

Sterling was a great friend to me, as good as anyone could ever wish. I can't describe the sorrow I feel. He will be missed so much and in so many ways. I will certainly remember him fondly. -- Danny boy

When he joined the band, the golden age of The Shed actually began. He was, simply a joy to work with, and a monster harp player. The Shed will never be the same without him, nor will Blacksburg. I ask everyone who reads this to pray for his family. He had lost his dad not long ago, and had just found out that his sister was very ill as well. His mother, Connie, needs our prayers. He was always the first to speak up when you needed help, and he was always genuinely concerned about the pain and sorrow he saw in others. It will be hard to take a stage without him. I'll miss him so much, I don't think I'll ever be able to listen to a blues harp the same way again.

Craig Counts-Founder of Electric Woodshed

Losing Sterling leaves a huge hole in many hearts. He was a special person whether you knew him a long time or just a while. He was very genuine and caring. I'm very grateful that he touched my life. God bless his family and friends. - js

I'll remember Sterling as always carrying a kind word and a mean harp. I'm lucky to count myself as one of the people who was touched by his love for music and his compassion for others. He was a true gentleman, and I miss him. - Kurt Kratch

At this time, I am without words. But, sometimes silence is a greater respect. My prayers go out to Sterling's family. Jonathan Barker

Very few people make me smile each and every time I see them. Sterling was one of those people for me. My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends. He was a shining light, keep it shining. nancy

Sterling and I shared many good times over the years. He was good friend and he was a good man. I'll miss you mate. Steve McCartney

I consider myself lucky to have known him. Here's to your kind words, your smile, & your friendship, Sterling. You have touched many lives. -karen

I knew Sterling in a professional way not related to music. He was in the midst of constructing a Timberframe home on Claytor Lake for me. I met Sterling through my son Danny and saw him play with the Shed before I knew he had other remarkable talents. He had contributed so much and worked so hard to be at this stage in his life to be taken away. He was a contributor and will be missed by so many in so many ways. I think that the lake property will always be a reminder of Sterling and all that he could do. I feel deeply for his mother, being a mother of sons I just cannot imagine what loss you must feel. Sincerly, Julia Dunlap

Brother Sterling touched my soul with his amazing spirit and energy. I was fortunate enough to spend the spring and most of the summer working with him on the construction of Danny Dunlap's mother's home out at Claytor Lake. I have had the honor and pleasure to be his bandmate in the Electric Woodshed over the last couple of years. My deepest prayers go up to him in the most high. I will always cherish my time with sterling. Praises to JAH.-George Penn,jr.

Noble & kind. A blessing to everyone that knew him. Best ridin' partner & dear friend for many years. You'll be missed terribly for a very long time. Kelc & Melba

Sterling was a great friend and great harmonica player. I will be sad that he is no longer in the world playing his tunes. My heart goes out to his mother and I echo Julia Dunlap in that losing a son is one of the worst things that I can imagine. The world will be a little less without him. Felecia

I'll miss Sterling's open smile and friendly attitude. He was always ready to have a good conversation about building or music or whatever was on your mind. He was a good man. I'll miss you. Peace. Richard

Sterling was my very good friend. I'll miss him for as long as I live. My heart is broken. Suzy

We were devastated when we heard the news a few miniutes ago and are truly saddened by this loss. Sterling was our friend. I played darts with him and enjoyed listening to him when he was with SNAGs and played with M R Ducks. We will really miss him. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his coworkers. May his soul rest in peace. Christina and Mathew

I can't stop thinking about all the things he did for me. He helped me move...more than once, that's friendship. It's so hard to realize how fortunate you are to have such a go-to guy until he's not there to go to anymore. My God what a hole in me. -Craig

Words can not express our sadness in hearing this tragic news. We loved Sterling for his music, but more importantly because of his warm smile and genuine kindness. Sterling was a special human being who will be missed greatly, but we are all better of for having known him. May his family and friends take comfort in knowing that Sterling touched so many people around him in such a positive way. Jamie & Donna

I cannot claim to have known the kind Sterling very well . I have met and talked with him occasionally over the past 4 years that I have had the priveledge to be living next door to his most wonderful and dear Mother, Connie Smiley. I told her last night that I personally look up to her and admire her . She has the strength of an army and the where-with-all of All womankind. I can tell you for sure Sterling Smiley was a very generous and caring son Who made sure all was right at home for his parents and then for his widowed mother. A son that made Mrs smiley proud. I only hope that I can instil some of the honorable and noble qualities in my sons that she knew instintively to instil in her most kind son Sterling. I am sorry MRs. Smiley has to know the agony of her child's death. She is strong. No woman should ever have to be as strong as she will be now and always. God rest Sterling Smileys soul and God bless Mrs SMiley. Jo Brizendine , Ashland VA.

I have known Sterling for several years, he lived next door to my parents' home in Blacksburg. He was a wonderful neighbor and had been very kind to my mother, especially since the passing of my father in June. He was always looking after my mother and her property and would do anything for her if asked. It was always a great comfort to me that someone close by was there to help her if need be. He will certainly be missed and on behalf of the McMahan family, especially Bobbie McMahan, we express our deepest sympathies for your loss, and will keep your entire family in our prayers daily. Matt McMahan (Dublin, VA )

Sterling, you were my best friend. We shared Tai Chi, building houses, movies at the Lyric, downtown Blacksburg, dinners at the Cellar, The West Wing, political rants, Hokies football, and many hours of good conversation. All of these things and more are now diminished. My heart aches at your sudden and final departure. I will miss you, buddy, for a long time. Thanks for your friendship. Rest in peace. Jim Lawrence

It was so awful to get home yesterday after being out of town and get this news. It's all so sudden and shocking that it's difficult to comprehend. The pictures on this site make it even more surreal. Sterling was and will continue to be an inspiration to my husband and I both personally and professionally. Talking to him always made me feel like a better person than I really am. His friendship and advice has made a difference in our lives. And I suppose I sadly get the last word on our long-running private joke, "Bubbas drool!" Thank you for everything Sterling; rest in peace. Ginny Ritenour

Sterling took me under his wing when I first started in the construction business here fifteen years ago. He was my sponsor when I joined the local Home Builders' Association. He introduced me to lots of folks and referred many projects my way. For this kindness I will always be grateful. Thank you, Sterling. Rest in peace. Randy Williams

I treasure my association with the 'Shed and its extended family, and Sterling Smiley is a big reason why I remember those days so fondly. Having been on the receiving end of his hospitality numerous times (I stayed at his house after quite a few gigs in '97 and '98) I came to know Sterling as a gentleman who brought class to everything he did from playing music to constructing buildings to cultivating relationships. Hats off to a life well lived. I will miss you, Sterling. Chuck Doyle

Too much of a tragic loss so soon, but Sterling would be happier going this way doing something that was such a sublime delight in riding his motorcycle, than any slow descent. I remember all the talks and all the beer after all the volleyball or softball games. Rest well and keep a spot warm on the bandstand buddy. Cary

I first met Sterling after joining the Shed a few years back. He had this amazing ability to go from causual acquaintance to good friend in under five minutes with anyone and everyone. He was so open and caring, so generous with his time, that I immediately felt connected with him. It's not surprising to see so many others here shared a similar experience. Sterling's harp playing was always brilliant, and it provided a terrific counterpoint to the twin guitars out front. I'll certainly miss that, but I'll miss him even more. Greg Bump

Sterling, the world is a much colder place without you in it. You were one of the nicest people I knew, and I will miss you greatly. Mary Mainous

Sterling will be missed. We considered him one of the family. Dave and Linda Edwards

Sterling was such a nice guy taken from us way too soon-Delbert

We will both miss you Sterling. You had a wonderful sense of humor and could always make us smile. David & Anne Cinsavich

Helpful, kind, and caring,the type of person of which the world needs more. Michael Etzler

Sterling taught me my first Tai Chi class. Always that smile. Kathy Lamb

I met Sterling when I first came to Blacksburg but lost touch with him after my divorce (he was friends with my ex-husband). A few years later I ran into him in a local restaurant. He recognized me and struck up a conversation like I had just seen him yesterday. That was the re-beginning of a friendship that I will cherish. He was always willing to lisiten and give advice when needed. I will miss his smiling face and his warm hugs. Kathleen

I found about Sterling's on Friday. Today going through town it finally hit me when I found myself looking for his truck. He was truly a wonderful person, a type person the world is in short supply of. I feel in my heart that he is well, safe and happy now. So many prayers have been offered for him and the Lord did say that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may aks, it shall be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. For where tow or three have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst (matthew 18:19-20. God bless you Sterling-you are muched loved and missed.

Out here in Tucson I feel too far away, yet my heart is back home with you all mourning the loss of our friend Sterling. May light perpetual shine upon him and may God comfort his family and friends including me. Dori Downs

It is with great sadness that I learned we have lost so fine a member of our Tai Chi community and my own friend and benefactor. Tom Richardson

Lucky enough to have been a friend & bandmate of Sterling. Brother, I (we) are sure gonna be missin' you. We love you. Ron & Lana, Bullwinkle & Tina, & Goose

I remember the first time I met Sterling, he had a smile from ear to ear. We was kind and well mannered to me and my girls. I saw him at steppin out and he remembered me as if it was yesterday and it had been 7 years or more since we last spoke. He will be a kind and gentle guardian angel for one lucky person. I will miss his smiling face..........God Bless to his family. Donna Smith

The 80's and meeting Sterling, tai chi , music and just that eady way he had, oh,too quickly it seems thanks for being a friend, deepest regards to the family...Robert

Man this is heavy. Sterling was one of those ray of sunshine people. The kind of guy you could run into for lunch somewhere and learn the most amazing things (that happened to me more than once). Tai Chi, I almost forgot ... a rare person. - Jeff & Lorin

I first met Sterling in the fall of 1996. He was an amazing blues harmonica player and I had the utmost respect for him. He and I played many times together over the years. Probably what I remember most about Sterling was that he was always there with a kind word and never had a harsh comment to say about anyone. He was always encouraging us younger musicians to strive for excellence and he truly had a passion for what he did whether it was music, design or building. He will be a brother sorely missed. Sterling and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers constantly. Brian "Willie" Williams

what do you say to who's lost a friend so long remorse no sorrows end though blues may play and tears will fall for he has heard his master's call we will remember and rejoice a harps sweet song now Angels voice Craig

I've known Sterling my whole life. He was a wonderful man and I will miss him very much. He always had a smile for me, and I was always so glad to see him. It's so hard to believe I never will again. I have memories of him that just seem right. When I was little, and now when I'm sixteen. I just wish I could have said goodbye. --Rose

Rest well, dear friend. What a sad, sad day for us. "The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore." - jamie

Sterling touched my life as he did with so many others. He always had such a great big smile in greeting whenever our paths crossed over the years. I first met Sterling while learning Tai Chi and progressed to enjoying his amazing playing with "The Shed". We shared many long talks at the E-Z Way and I looked forward to our next time together. There I learned how talented he was in so many things. But his greatest talent was his willingness and generosity in helping others in countless ways. His kindness and caring touched so many hearts so deeply. It has been my blessing to have known such a loving and well loved person. 'Till next we meet. Linda Joyner

I hadn't seen Sterling for a while but bumped into him in front of the stage at Steppin Out. We stood there for the better part of 1/2 hour just shooting the breeze. Whenever you saw him you got the feeling that he was genuinely glad to see you, whether it was months or days. I was thinking about him last night and it occurred to me that he was probably the most aptly named person I have ever met - his quality of character certainly was Sterling and he was definitely Smiley. He will be sorely missed. God bless him and his family. Hunter

Sterling, you are lost to us, but I know your kind and gentle spirit lives on. Our deepest sympathy to your family and friends. We will miss you for a long time. -- Anne and Bill

Sterling was a kind man, a giving man, and a gentle man. He was a good soul who will be missed dearly by his friends.

"It is with our incredible sorrow. ."; indeed. I feel so fortunate to have known him. -Dave Shantz

We will miss Sterling--his enthusiasm for life was catching. It is so sad that he is gone. We miss his smile and all the conversations over the years. Joan and Steve

We met Sterling many years ago and both of us were immediately taken by this friendly, carefree manner and big smile. Sterling was always happy to see you. The conversation would pick up where it left off as if we had never parted. Still can't believe he is gone so soon. Our hearts are broken and we miss him more then we can express. Glen & Alice Davis

We just met Sterling after renting an apartment for our daughter. We had limited assistance in moving her and Sterling stepped in and helped us move. His kindness and support were greatly appreciated. He touched everyone he met. We are very happy to have had the opportunity to have met him. Greg, Pat and Larissa Hill (Woodbridge, VA )

I have known and worked with Sterling for many years. It was an easy transition from associate to friend, good friend. He was knowledgable in his field and very easy to work with. When he asked you how you were doing, he sincerely was interested, he was not just passing words. I have lost a biker buddy, a business associate and a good friend. I grieve for for his family's and my loss, he will be sorely missed. May God ease the sorrow of his passing. Brian Strong (Pearisburg, VA )

Sad to loose a guy in my field of business. He , though not a close friend, felt like one when I saw him in kroger. He was a ray of sunshine. peace...peter

Please convey our thoughts and concerns to his family. Sterling was genuine. We will miss him. Jill and Bill Halstead

Sterling was so special. When you became his friend you were then a part of his whole world. When he heard anything you would be interested in, he would certainly call. "Hey this is Sterling, 953-00..." If someone he cared about was on his mind, he would tell you about them. It never mattered if you knew them or not, only that they were important to him so that made them important to you. He was wonderful and added so much to my life. I cannot express just how much I miss him. Susan (Sue) Higgs

When one remembers Sterling, one remembers him as tall, good looking, and a wonderful smile. But he was so much more than that. He was always ready to listen, ready to play music, and ready to give hugs. I received my last hug from Sterling around my birthday in April of this year. He was a very pleasant man, and never had an unkind word to say about any body. I will never forget my last birthday present, because it was a warm and friendly hug from Sterling. He will be much missed by myself and my family. We love you Sterling. Love, Cheryl, David, and Ethan

We have all lost an amazing presence, one whom I considered to be an All-Star. Sterling was the consummate professonal -- a fine, honorable and brave fellow soldier in the Construction Wars, and could be counted on to get it right. I wish Sterling and his family peace for eternity. We will miss him like the Sun, and are reminded once again that one whose star burns so brightly, burns so briefly. -- Tom Bube

I met Sterling in 1986, the year I met a whole group of incredible people in Blacksburg. Many of those people have written their thoughts about Sterling here and it's a comfort beyond measure. You know who you are. Sterling, Sterling, Sterling. WHAT A SMILE! I remember Jungleball, Happy hour at Morgan's, parties at Cary's house on Harding, volleyball at the river...a gentleman, a gentle man. Love and peace to all, Linda Skeens

I had kind of known Sterling from around town, but really got to know him in 97 when we were taking a graduate class together. It was my first class and his last...I think he felt that he needed to finish his Masters after so many years in town. Though I was only 27 at the time, we were kind of the 2 'old school' guys in class and immediately teamed up for our project. We went out to the Cellar every week after class (gotta love night school) and talked about everything from work to class to the band. He loved the band, and I was surprised at how serious he was about it even though he was running his own company. He was a joy to be around and as almost everyone else here has pointed out, he was genuinely interested in whatever your deal was. We had the Shed play at our wedding and it was, in ours and our guests opinion,?one of the best weddings of all time. We moved to (uuugh) Northern VA in 98 and were always happy to run into Sterling downtown or just to see his truck parked somewhere when we came to visit. He kind of personified to us what it was to live in this great town and how you could make a go of it here. He had so many things going on and always time to stop and talk. We bailed out of NOVA, bought an old house in Blacksburg and moved back 2 months ago. The first person I called for advice on the renovation was Sterling - I left a message. He called back about an hour later and talked to Carol and I about everything, ours and his. He was super excited for us, gave us some great advice and referred us to some subs he thought were great to work with. We agreed to get together for a beer, and Carol agreed to help him find a good woman. Carol and I talked for a while after the conversation about what a great guy he was and how nice it would be to see him more often. We were home. I can't believe that I didn't just go out and meet him right then for the beer(s), not knowing that it would never happen. This has been totally shocking to us to lose such a great friend and such a valuable resource in our community. Peace to you, Sterling. -Sean and Carol Beliveau

I don't think I was technically in the band when Sterling joined, but after he did, it seemed like he had been there all along. Though I had dropped out to become a suit, I would still keep sniffing around band practices, because that was where my sole was. Sterling would rib me about paying dues to pay the blues and that kind of stuff in Taylor's basement, but he was also a great listener. Whenever I infrequently got back to the 'burg, I could rap with Sterling as if I had never left, like an ongoing conversation about building things, music and riding. I feel fortunate that I got to work with him on the record. For some reason, whenever I came back for a Steppin' Out show, he was either the first or second person I would see, so I was usually roped into carrying some shed gear to the stage. That was because he often carried it in his truck for the other guys. That's the kind of guy he was....Stu Salmon

We were truely saddened to hear about Sterling's passing and send our thoughts and prayers to his family and many friends. It was always a treat to see Sterling, with his big enthusiastic, contagious smile he would make your day with a chance meeting. We will miss hearing his music and miss seeing him ride down the road. Rest in peace friend. Robert and Shannon

Message to Sterling: "Sterling". If anybody could live up to that name, it it was you. You befriended my young son at football- watching parties. You gave me an excellent bottle of scotch for my 50th birthday. Thoughtful, considerate and kind -- that was you, buddy. From now on, whenever anyone is really thoughtful, considerate, and kind, I'm going to say " How Sterling" or "That's very Sterling of you". Everybody will know what I mean. Goodby, good friend. Dave Yolton

Sterling was a wonderful friend and an incredible man. His kind words helped me through many difficult times, his support unwavering and his smile, well it was contagious! While I have been away from the area for awhile, we always managed to stay in touch. We would run into each other during Steppin' Out or football weekends, always with that comforting embrace that made you feel like you were never too far away. There are so many wonderful memories of Sterling that have brought a sense of peace during this sadness. Thank you for those memories, Sterling! I will miss you, Shannon

My wife and I new Sterling for a number of years as he did work on own house in the 1980s. I was his student in Tai Chi for a number of years, and my wife and I would see him at Mill Mountain. He was always pleasant and friendly and he will be missed by us. Sterling would always take the time to discuss what he was doing or about the band as I played with the Blacksburg Community Band. We shared similar interests in music. We are going to miss a great person who passed by our lives with his upbeat personality. Dana & Marilyn Spencer

On behalf of Cycle Center friends and employees we extend our prayers and well wishes to family and truly want to say what a great guy Sterling is and as a customer and friend will be missed deeply. A SUPER person to have known and associated with in every capacity in life!!!!!! Tommy and Richard and all the folks at Cycle Center Roanoke. Call and let us know if we can be of any assistance. 5401-366-8500

A week has passed and I can't help but to think of our fallen frien often. I shared a memory with some friends via e-mail the other day I would like to share here. At a time when I was confused didn't know what I wanted to do with myself (which by the way I still am) and needed a job, Sterling talked to me about working for him. He really didn't have any openings at the time and I know virtually nothing about home construction, especially at the level of greatness that SDCI does it. He was taking a hell of a rist to even think about hiring me but Sterling didn't think of that, he saw someone that wanted to better their spot in the world. I think as I slowly raise my head back up I am going to try to carry myself with a bit more dignity, grace, professionalism, and kindness that Sterling always had such an abundance of. If everyone was just a little bit more like Sterling Smiley the world would be a much safer, happier, friendly and overall better place for all. Goodbye, farewell, peace and love Sterling!! Thanks for making so many lives better just being yourself, your impact will not go away!! Joey Ritenour

It is with much sadness that I write this to a dear friend and great guy. We worked on many jobs and were friends for years. Your work was always done in a professional manner. I will miss you as a colleague but more as a friend. I will miss your friendly smile and our friendship. Dale Echols

Sterling was my best friend for several years in the late 80's and early 90's. We shared delicious vegetarian lunches at South Main Cafe (his favorite was hot and spicy sesame noodles), as well as great bands on weekend nights at the same location. During the Christmas season, we often celebrated with eggnog and dark rum. Though Sterling never married, he was very much the ladies man - his love life was often the most colorful topic of local gossip. He was a true craftsman and perfectionist and his professional work had no peers. Sterling was an incredibly versatile musician and brought a new dimension to the Woodshed. Perhaps one of his proudest moments was being asked to play with the Woodshed, a group we had listened to for nearly a decade before. Sterling also excelled as an athlete, playing both volleyball and softball for the local Jungleballers sports dynasty. Rest in peace, good Sterling - you will be truly missed. Theta Bowden (Blacksburg, VA ) theta.bowden@vt.edu

"He fell gently as a tree falls. there was not even a sound..." For those of you who would like to beter understand the passing of Sterling, please read The Little Prince, by Antoine De Saint-Exuperey, and it may help you deal with his death much easier. I will always think of Sterling as a Prince, who gave me lots of little stars to gaze up at and laugh. Cheryl Handwork (Blacksburg, VA ) CLHandwork@aol.com

I was saddened to learn of Sterling's untimely death. I will miss his ready smile and our friendly business relationship. John Brown (Blacksburg, VA )

September 3, 2004 Sterling was a knowledgeable and valuable member of our home builders assocociation.Without a doubt he will be surely missed. Respectfully, Don Linkous,Associate Director,New River Valley Home Builders Association Don Linkous (Blacksburg, VA ) dlinkous@llbrown.net

I HAVE KNOWN STERLING EVER SINCE HE CAME TO BLACKSBURG. I WAS VERY SADDEN TO HEAR ABOUT HIS UNTIMELY DEATH. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY. CHRIS KAPPAS Chris Kappas (Blacksburg, VA )

Hey, Sterling, remember when we first met? You were a great, understanding Tai Chi instructor for a bumbling pupil. But as I worked out I knew you were somebody special. How about those after-Tai Chi dinners at the Cellar and when we ate Chinese and watched the Shao-lin monks perform at the Civic Center. Memories -- you always had time to listen, so patiently, to an old man' ramblings and we easily shared our hopes and concerns for family and friends and how we perceived the world and our part in it. You were indeed a special friend and will be sorely missed. rrk

There's a song in my heart that is only for you... I hope you can hear it because I can't seem to find the strength or the courage to reach in and find an earthly way to express it just yet. Rest well my friend. Beth

Sterling, I was fortunate enough to learn a great deal about building from you. The knowledge that you passed to me without even trying will never be forgotten. Thanks for being one of my easiet customers to deal with. Jason

Returning to Blacksburg after an extended road trip, I was saddened to hear the news of Sterling's accident and death. All who knew him will miss his luminous smile, warm greetings, intelligent conversation and many talents. Sterling was a true friend who offered his support many years ago when I needed a friend and I will never forget. Remembering the many good times we shared through the years brings a smile to my face and will warm my heart in the future. Telling lies about our heroics on the softball field was a favorite. Listening to music, talking of scenic roads and trips to come were great topics of conversation. Working along side of Sterling was always a learning experience and made me a better craftsman. To a gentleman in the truest sense of the word, goodbye?I will miss you. Michael

I recently found out about Sterling's passing last weekend from a member of his band. I was quite saddened. I knew Sterling from doing business w/ him many times while I at a rental company in Blacksburg. He was always pleasant and I knew from his professionalism, he was a great at what he did. People who worked with him also spoke highly. As a person and musician, he will be greatly missed. He is at a better place!! We will meet again someday.. Dave Pair(Blacksburg)

I have lived in Blacksburg for many years and have seen Sterling in a variety of situations from aerobics,the music seen,construction,casual conversation. Always a smlie ,always had something nice to say. God BLess. You will be missed. Jan Meehan (Blacksburg, VA )

I always appreciated his laugh.  It came from somewhere inside him and was a good balance to his intensity that came from his sharp intellect and full curiosity.  For years he taught Tai Chi with Jim Lawrence for the YMCA, helping others learn a philosophy and practice that can transform their lives. He gave of himself to enrich the life of our community.  He was a passionate person and although his death is awful, somehow it fits the adventuresome side of him.  Peace to you, Sterling, and to we who will continue to miss him.  Barb Holcomb

It's so hard to believe a year has passed. Sterling, you are still in the hearts and on the minds of all. May God continue to bless you and all those who love you. -js  

I just found the memorial to Sterling tonight. Thank you for keeping it up. I knew Sterling from when I first moved to Richmond in 1973. I lived with him in a house on Floyd Ave. for a while. We kept in touch even after he moved to Blacksburg but sadly I lost touch with him when I left Richmond in the mid 80's. I tried to locate him from time to time after that but was unable to. I realize now I had forgotten his first name was really Ken. Finding the memorial has brought back so many memories of when we were both in our early twenties. I find myself thinking of things that I probably haven't recalled since they happened. You might be surprised to hear that he got busted for pot in that house on Floyd. We were playing music so loud that the cops came in because we couldn't hear them knocking. Poor Sterling had the great misfortune of having just had a joint passed to him. I remember going around collecting bail for him until late at night and how everyone was glad to give something to get him out. If possible, I would like to leave some of my memories on your memorial. Thank you, Steve Roberts