Sterling Eugene Clerkley, affectionately known as "Stee" and "Hands", was born on February 17, 1969, in St. Louis, Missouri, to James and Lula Mae Clerkley. Sterling loved relaxing with a drink in hand while watching sports on TV, especially during March Madness — he always made sure his schedule was clear for the games. A devoted LA Rams fan, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his favorite football team. He had a deep passion for cars and took great pride in his own — keeping them in top shape and admiring their every detail. Home was his favorite place to be, especially in his man cave, where he could unwind and enjoy time with his family. More than anything, Sterling loved his wife and children dearly. His warmth, humor, and devotion will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lula Mae Clerkley; nephew, Conan Clerkley; aunt-in-law, Ella Ghoston; nephews, Kevin Clerkley and Byron Jones, Jr.; grandmother-in-law, Claretha Burr; and mother-in-law, Debie Burr-LaFavor.

He leaves cherished memories to his loving wife, Kewonna Burr-Clerkley; children, Vernell Clerkley, Markesia Clerkley Douglas Rogers, Jr., Dakia Burr, and Dontrell Clerkley; brothers, Richard Monroe, Christopher Clerkley, Keith Clerkley, and Stanley Clerkley; sisters, Janice Clerkley, Terri Clerkley, and Sheritta Jones (Byron, Sr.); aunts, Corliss Johnson, Mary Burr, Brenda Reed (Donald) and Cynthia Shoats (Charles); uncles, Johnnie Clerkley, Roosevelt Burr, Jr., John Burr, and Elder Tracy Burr (Evangelist Sharmaine); nieces, Trece, Trina, Tellia, Tinishia, Tymesha, and Taliah; nephews, Cameron, Joshua, and Khiree; best friends, John Fielder, Jr., Demetrius Thurman, and Benito Duinkerk; special friends and family, Dereck Thurman, Cedric Knight, Jay Jones, Don Warren and family, Nyeisha Firman and family, the Davie Ray, Downes, Hopwood, and Baker families; grandfather-in-law, Roosevelt Burr, Sr.; and brother-in-law, Desmond Burr; along with a host of other cousins and relatives. Sterling will be truly missed. The family appreciates all the love and support during this difficult time.