Sterling Bailey

We gather here to honor and remember the life of a remarkable man, Sterling Eugene Bailey, or as many of us knew him, “Stub.” Sterling passed away peacefully in his home on January 1, 2025, at the age of 79. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the rich and fulfilling life he led, and the profound impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Sterling was a man who truly cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his father, Sterling Bailey, his mother, Beatrice Bailey, sister, Alice Frank, and his brother-in-law, David Rutherford. However, his legacy continues through the many loved ones he leaves behind, including his devoted wife of over 30 years, Martha. Together, they built a life full of love that left everyone who came into their home filled with joy. He is also survived by his children, Todd, Tiffany, Tammy; stepchildren, Connie and Brian; ten grandchildren, Travis, Chad, Natalie, Katie, Ashley, Nick, Tara, Joel, Heather, and Brandon; and two brothers, Ron and Dean. His family expanded further with the blessing of six great-grandchildren, each of whom brought an additional sparkle to his life. Sterling’s love for his family was unwavering. If there was a sporting event, a recital, a graduation, or a wedding celebration, you could always count on him to be there, cheering on his grandchildren, showing up for the important moments. He was their biggest fan and their greatest supporter. His presence at these events spoke volumes about the kind of man he was: devoted, proud, and always there when it mattered most. But beyond his love for his family, Sterling had a deep passion for the outdoors. It was where he truly felt at home, where he found peace and joy. Whether it was hiking through miles of scenic landscapes, hunting in the Upper Peninsula, or spending time riding horses out west on elk hunts, Sterling never needed an excuse to be outside. He thrived in nature. His adventures took him far and wide, but whether he was on a hunting trip or simply enjoying the open air, he was always in his element. In fact, his love for the outdoors was so integral to who he was that it became a defining part of his identity. We all remember the tales he shared—of long treks through forests, of thrilling hunting expeditions, and of quiet moments spent with his horses. But Sterling wasn’t just a man of adventure; he was a man of quiet strength and steady dedication. He approached life with a sense of purpose and commitment that extended to every aspect of his life, from his work to his family to his passions. Today, as we reflect on Sterling’s life, we find ourselves not only mourning his absence but also celebrating the countless memories he gifted us. The sound of his laughter, the warmth of his presence, and his steady guidance will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His love for his family, his zest for life, and his devotion to the outdoors will be a legacy that endures for generations to come. So, while we say goodbye to a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, we also say thank you to Sterling. Thank you for the love, the lessons, the laughter, and the memories. Thank you for being a steadfast presence in our lives. We will carry you with us, in every hunt, every outdoor adventure, and every family gathering. Your spirit will never leave us. Rest in peace, Sterling. You will be missed, but never forgotten. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Sterling’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory or photo, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sterling Bailey, please visit our flower store.