Edward "Ned" Alan Sterling

Edward ‘Ned’ Alan Sterling, age 87, of Chestertown, Maryland, passed away on February 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and deep devotion to family. Ned was born on September 27, 1938, to the late Esther L. Bright and Philip C. Sterling, Jr. When Ned was a young teen, he began working as a farmhand for the late Cliff Atwell and his wife Elsie. They gave him the opportunity to continue life on the farm and in Kennedyville by welcoming him into their home. They and their children, Cathy and Karen, who thought of him as their older brother, are family. Ned was truly a people person — his family fondly says he “never met a stranger.” Whether striking up a conversation at the store or waving to a neighbor, he had a gift for making others feel welcome and valued. His friendly spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. His lifelong hobby was to piddle with his scanner and CB radio, he was an avid reader of the Tidewater Trader, The Guide, as well as the Kent County News — which he affectionately called the “County Bible”. At one time Ned volunteered for the Kennedyville Volunteer Fire Company and the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company. He will be remembered most for his generous heart, his love for conversation, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved. He cared deeply for his family and treasured the time they spent together. Ned is survived by his devoted wife Edith Sterling, and daughters Cheryl Hurd (David) and Laurie Usilton (Craig). His grandchildren, Casey Hurd (Kathleen), Kelly Hurd (Curtis), Lauren Schmidt (Glen), Brodie Usilton (Kylie), Tanner Usilton (Makenzie), and Colby Usilton (Lauren). Ned is also survived by great grandchildren, Quinn, Tessa, Avery, Reid, Tripp and Cooper. Also surviving him are Curtis and Ryan, Cathy Legg and Karen Tigner, and his sister Martha. Ned is predeceased by his sisters Lyn and Phyllis, son Charles Edward Sterling and granddaughter Meghan Hurd. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of his family and friends. A visitation will be held on Thursday March 5, 2026, from 10:00AM to 11:30 AM with a short service to follow at 11:30 am at Fellows Helfenbein and Newnam Funeral home, 130 Speer Rd, Chestertown, MD, with a private graveside service to immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ned’s name may be made to the Kennedyville Volunteer Fire Company at 11966 Kennedyville Road, Kennedville, MD 21645 or the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company at 211 Maple Ave, Chestertown, MD 21620.

Edward "Ned" Alan Sterling

September 27, 1938 - February 25, 2026