Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. Obituaries

About Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc.

Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. is a trusted and respected funeral home located in the heart of Fresno, California. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has been serving the community for many years. Located at 1103 E Street, Fresno, CA, 93706, Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. is dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc., the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. That's why they are committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to each family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team at Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. is dedicated to making the funeral planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Mae Pearl Salter - September 06, 1932 - January 19, 2024

Departed: 01/19/2024 (Fresno)

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James Francis Doyle - January 29, 1941 - January 15, 2024

Departed: 01/15/2024 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: James “Jim” Francis Doyle returned home to God on January 15, 2024 just two weeks short of his 83rd birthday. Jim was surrounded by his family who lovingly walked with him during the days before his death. Born to James and Bernice Doyle, Jim grew up in Sacramento. Jim was a man of deep devotion: to God, to Laura, his wife of 58 years, to his children Brian, Maureen, Terese and husband Steve, Michelle and husband David, Kevin and wife Laurie, and Erin and husband Mat, to his grandchildren, Jennifer, Brianna, Brennan, Morgan, Gillian, Killian, Ronan, Jameson and Connor and great grandchildren, Cooper and Penny and to his extended family especially his sisters Patricia Schiele and Sister Mary Katherine Doyle RSM.

Jim was the rock of our family. He was a hard worker, a true steward of the land, humble, kind, loving and an inspiration to many. Jim was a generous man, always wanting to help those in need and touched the lives of so many through his teaching, mentoring, advice, tough love and prayers.

Jim had a great love for creation. After finishing St. Joseph Seminary High School in Santa Cruz, he received a degree in Agronomy at the University of California, Davis. Immediately after his graduation, he was called to serve in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his discharge from service, he began his work as a Field Research Technician for University of California, Davis in the Pomology department where he served until his retirement. His expertise in this niche discipline was marked by mentoring new research professors as well as technicians and developing new varieties of prunes, figs, Asian pears, and stone fruit. He was regarded as an expert in the fruit breeding industry collaborating on many published works.

Family and faith were always first in his life. He was a loving husband, father, brother and a faithful disciple of Christ Jesus. His funeral will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, in Fresno, CA on January 31st at 10 a.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Bishop Gallegos Maternity Home of Sacramento (https://bgmhsacramento.org/support-us) or Poverello House of Fresno (https://poverellohouse.org/).

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Gary Bernard Bishop - October 28, 1954 - January 12, 2024

Departed: 01/12/2024 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Our dearly beloved Gary Bishop, has entered into rest unexpectedly January 12, 2024. He was 69 years old.

Gary was born in Glendale, CA, October 28, 1954. His mother Lorraine and father Harold moved their family to Pine Flat Lake in 1962 where they bought property and ran successful businesses. The Bishop family ran Kings River Lodge until 1966 the Trimmer Store and Cafe until 1969. Gary graduated Sierra Union High School in 1969. He went on to study constriction at Fresno City College and owned west coast construction for a period of time.

Gary loved Lake sports and was a avid water skier. He enjoyed time on the lake with family and friends every chance he got. Gary was very proud to shame all of these things he loved to do with his children. He always extended a invitation to spend time at his beloved property at pine Pine Flat Lake. Gary is well known for lending a helping hand to someone in need.

His gentle spirit and hard working nature has touched many. Gary is survived 3 children Cheryl Bishop of Visalia Jillian Bishop of Fresno Jacob Bishop of Fresno

His step children James, Christopher, Katelyn and Nathan as well as VI grandchildren and 1 niece Tina of Dinuba and sister Vivian of Reedley. He is proceeded in death by his parents Lorraine Marie St. George and Harold Bishop. Services for Gary will be held Saturday, February 10th at !pm Grace Place Church 375 5th St. Clovis, CA

There will be a luncheon directly following.

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Albert C James - June 14, 1954 - December 23, 2023

Departed: 12/23/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Albert Charles James called AJ by family and friends, was born to Albert and Juanita James on June 14, 1954 in Los Angeles CA, fell asleep in death on December 23, 2023.

AJ was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Juanita James.

He is survived by his two sisters, Venita James and Gail James-Strole as well as a nephew Gary Jones and two nieces Denise Martin and Alesha James, their children, a close cousin Zoria Faye French who helped care for him in his last days, and a host of other relatives and friends.

AJ suffered a cardiac arrest on December 3rd, 2019 and fought his way back. And although he had other health issues he continued to strive to get back on his feet. He never gave up fighting but his body just gave out.

AJ had started learning about Jehovah from Brother Dale Michaels from the local congregation where he lived in Hanford before his heart attack. After his recovery, although he had some memory loss he still remembered Jehovah. He would watch JW Broadcasting with Venita and was always present at the meetings via zoom and in person when they could. AJ enjoyed the meetings and making new friends at the Kingdom Hall. His sister Venita said that when she gave him his tablet and told him he could do a puzzle or one of his learning games he would always open up to a watchtower study.

AJ is now asleep in death but the time will soon come when Jesus will say, “AJ get up” (John 5:28) and he will rise into a beautiful new world without pain and suffering; a world without tears. Just think of a world, a world without tears Where man can live for a thousand years With never a sorrow, an ache or a pain And never a thought of dying again Think of a world when a man plants a vine He can sit in its shade and say, “This is mine” He’ll live in the house that his own hands have made And none will molest or make him afraid Think of a world without bloodshed and strife Where no man dare take another man’s life Where man among man will be united in peace Where malice & hatred will forevermore cease Think of the earth as a globe paradise Where mountains and deserts will dazzle your eyes Beautiful flowers, shrubbery and trees Gay butterflies, songbirds and bees Yes, think! Just as Jehovah God’s word is the truth A man shall return to the days of his youth His flesh shall become as the flesh of a child The words that he speaks will be cheerful & mild Think of a world where the lame man will walk The deaf one will hear, the mute one will talk Where all without sight will no longer be blind The mute one will sing & speak forth his mind Yes, think of a world where each man is a brother Not esteeming himself above that of another Where man among man will be friend among friend In a world without tears that will never end Think of a world where the dead will have risen From their silent cold tombs that held them in prison To live forever, to love and caress Their loved ones and friends in true righteousness Now a world without tears is not just a dream As many a person will make it to seem Just as sure as the Bible is true A world without tears now lies before you And since such a world before you now lies Wouldn’t you like to live in such paradise? And share all the things that our God has in store For all who would do his will ever more? Well, good news of the kingdom is still being sung In every nation, tribe, people and tongue And all who are thirsting for the truth are invited To join this new brotherhood and be united In praising our God, our Savior, our King And giving to him all our love, everything That we might live throughout endless years In a world without sorrow A World Without Tears

AJ had began learning about that new world and began his journey to get there before he fell asleep in death. We hope to see him in that beautiful new world, but for now he can rest. AJ will be greatly missed. Song He Will Call (Job 14:15) 1. Life, like a mist, appears for just a day,

Then disappears tomorrow. All that we are can quickly fade away,

Replaced with tears and sorrow. If a man should die, can he live again? Hear the promise God has made: (CHORUS)

He will call; The dead will answer.

They shall live at his command. For he will have a longing

For the work of his own hand. So have faith, and do not wonder,

For our God can make us stand. And we shall live forever,

As the work of his own hand. 2. Friends of our God, though they may pass away,

Will never be forsaken. All those asleep who in God’s mem’ry stay,

From death he will awaken. Then we’ll come to see all that life can be:

Paradise eternally. (CHORUS)

He will call; The dead will answer.

They shall live at his command. For he will have a longing

For the work of his own hand. So have faith, and do not wonder,

For our God can make us stand. And we shall live forever,

As the work of his own hand. Rest in peace AJ

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Jose - Mendoza - March 17, 1956 - December 11, 2023

Departed: 12/11/2023 (Fresno)

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Steavean - Jordan - June 06, 1959 - December 04, 2023

Departed: 12/04/2023 (Fresno)

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Candelaria Sanchez - October 26, 1987 - November 14, 2023

Departed: 11/14/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: NO SERVICE SCHEDULED AT THIS TIME. PER FAMILIES REQUEST,

DONATIONS CAN BE MADE DIRECTLY TO THE FUNERAL HOME.  PLEASE CALL 559-266-9711 FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE.

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Ernestina Luna Mendoza - November 08, 1933 - October 27, 2023

Departed: 10/27/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Our beloved mother Ernestina L. Mendoza answered the Lord’s loving call and passed on Friday, October 27, 2023. She is survived by her five children, five grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and an abundance of relatives and cherished friends. Our mother was preceded by her mother, sister, brother, and son.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at 10:00am on Friday December 15, 2023, at Sacred Heart Church, 2140 N Cedar Ave, Fresno, CA 93703 followed by a Celebration of Life at American Legion Post 509, 3509 N First St, Fresno, CA 93726. In remembrance of Ernestina L. Mendoza, it was our mother’s wish that in lieu of flowers, those who wish to express condolences may consider making a charitable donation in her memory to the following: The Fresno Center (Holistic Wellness Program) 4879 E Kings Canyon Rd Fresno, CA 93727 Phone: (559) 255-8395 Email: info@fresnocenter.org Sacred Heart Church 2140 N Cedar Ave Fresno, CA 93703 Phone: (559) 237-4121 Email: sacredheartfresno@att.net With heartfelt gratitude, The Mendoza Family

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Bonnie Borec - April 28, 1932 - October 23, 2023

Departed: 10/23/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Bonnie Borec came into this world on April 28, 1932 in Alberta, Canada and left on October 23, 2023 in Clovis, California.

She was born Benita Rozok, the first daughter and second child of Walter and Ulita (Yaremchuk) Rozok. She was raised in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada and immigrated with her family to Los Angeles at the age of 19. There she met her husband Stefan Borec and they were married for 61 years before his passing in 2014.

She was preceded in death by her husband Stefan Borec, parents Walter and Ulita Rozok, all her brothers, Peter Rozok, Edward Rozok, David Rozok, Philip Rozok, and sister Mary Ann Newby.

Bonnie, as she came to be known in the United States, was raised on a farm with her eight siblings. After marriage and living in the Los Angeles area, she and her husband moved their family to Fresno. She was an administrative secretary at Central Unified School District for 25 years after starting as a teachers’ aide at Madison Elementary School in rural west Fresno. After retirement, Bonnie and Steve moved to Shaver Lake and after ten plus years there, returned to Fresno.

She is survived by her three children Donna Borec, Robert (Laura) Borec and Linda (Brian) Bobbitt; five grandchildren Chad, Chelsy (Luis), Justin (Darci), Carleigh (Josh) and Brenner; and four great-grandchildren JB, Bonnie, Lilly and Daisey. She is also survived by her sisters Ruth (Paul) Rudko, Irene Robinson and Lily (Frank) Genova, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

We would like to thank Clovis Community Medical Center, their Palliative Care Team and Jackie Amabile, her care giver this last year, for all their compassion and support. The staff in the stepdown unit and cardiac progressive care unit were exceptional. Special thanks to Dr. Pushpalatha Arakere, who was our most consistent advocate. Remembrances can be made to CCMC Palliative Care.

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James - Bennett, Jr. - July 22, 1936 - September 15, 2023

Departed: 09/15/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: James Bennett July 22, 1936 - September 15, 2023

Fresno, California - James Bennett passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on September 15, 2023. James was born on July 22, 1936 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rosie Lee Bennett, five sons, Alton (Adrianna) Bennett of San Antonio, Texas; Stacy (Camelia) Bennett of Fresno, California; Brian (Lucille) Bennett of Fresno, California; James C. (Stacey) Bennett of Summerville, Georgia; Wayne (Dawn) Bennett of Charlotte, North Carolina; one daughter, Rosalyn Bennett of Fresno, California; 13 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; siblings Ruby Adams of Cleveland, Ohio; Josephine Williams of Las Vegas, Nevada; Billy (Carol) Reed of Mesa, Arizona; and Bea (Lee) Fowler-Brown of Marietta, Georgia. James also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of extended family and friends.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Luella and James Bennett Sr.; and Beatrice and C.P. Reed; daughter, Lisa Alvarez; and siblings Daniel Turner, Percy Jones and Della Garrett.

In 1951 James moved to Madera, California where he met and married Rosie on February 24, 1966. Together they had seven children; five sons and two daughters and raised them in Madera. On August 7, 1976, he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and dedicated the remainder of his life educating others about the Bible and helping them build a relationship with Jehovah God. He shared in the full-time ministry for more than 40 years.

James and Rosie moved to Fresno in 2005 to be closer to their grown children and grandchildren and have resided in Fresno since then.

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Wendell Alvin Phillips, Sr. - April 06, 1951 - September 14, 2023

Departed: 09/14/2023 (Fresno)

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Mary Ann Ballard - June 29, 1948 - August 21, 2023

Departed: 08/21/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Mary Ann Dixon-Ballard was born Tuesday, June 29th, 1948. She came from humble beginnings, her first home being Hackett’s Camp in Fresno, CA. She was born to Mary Ethel Colbert and Thurman Dixon Sr., and was the second of nine children. Beginning at the age of seven, Mary Ann lived with and was raised by her paternal grandmother, Mollie Williams.

As a child, Mary Ann attended Orange Center Elementary School, where she enjoyed kickball, basketball, and track. She went on to attend Irwin Junior High and Edison High School. In her 20’s, she attended Galen Medical College and soon began working as a school nurse for Fresno Unified. In 1973, she started her career at Fresno Community Hospital in the cardiology department, working as a monitor technician and later as a secretary. She retired after 20 years. Mary Ann had an entrepreneurial spirit, and in 1992, started her own daycare. After running a successful daycare, she became the co-owner of the O’Neil Residential Care Facility, which cared for adults with special needs.

In 2006, at the age of 57, Mary Ann moved to Southaven, Mississippi. It was there that she was diagnosed with breast cancer, but it was also where she found her calling. As a member of Brown Missionary Baptist Church, she recognized a need, and became one of the first 20 members of the church’s Cancer Support Ministry in 2009. She worked side-by-side with the founders, helping cancer survivors find resources for treatment, support, and reconstructive surgery after illness. Mary Ann shocked people by saying cancer was the best thing to ever happen to her, and explained that through her suffering, she found her calling in caring for others.

Upon returning to Fresno in 2013, Mary Ann continued serving as a voice for the sickly. She used her medical knowledge and experience to advocate on behalf of patients. She opened her home to adults with special needs and lovingly cared for her own sister, the late Val.

Mary Ann was known for her flawless style. She loved to shop, shoes being her favorite. Her style was the first thing people noticed about her, aside from her beautiful smile. However, that didn’t mean she wasn’t down-to-earth. She enjoyed movies, cooking, baking, traveling, reading, hiking, interior decorating, and most of all, gardening. She truly had a green thumb and was a master at landscaping.

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Victoria Johnson Hill - August 21, 1948 - August 05, 2023

Departed: 08/05/2023 (Fresno)

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Lorenzo Luna - August 10, 1951 - August 01, 2023

Departed: 08/01/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Lorenzo Pedro Luna, affectionately known as Pastor Pete, was born on August 10, 1951, in East Los Angeles, California, to his parents Robert and Frances Luna. He peacefully passed away on August 1, 2023, in Clovis, California, surrounded by his devoted wife of 44 years, Vicki, along with their children, grandchildren, extended family, and his beloved Victory Outreach church family.

Pete's legacy as an incredible husband, father, and papa is cherished by all who knew him. Pete is survived by his wife Vicki and 5 children, Art, Desiree, Sabrina, Gloria and Andrew. He is survived by 9 Grandsons, 7 Granddaughters, 2 Great-Granddaughters. He was predeceased by his loving son Petey Luna, Father, Mother and Brother. He was a dedicated provider and protector, leading his family with unwavering convictions. His deep commitment to his family was evident in everything he did.

Pete's professional life spanned over 47 years as a cross-country and local truck driver. However, his greatest ministry was his role as a Pastor/Minister in Victory Outreach, which he faithfully served for over 28 years. He dedicated 35 years to Victory Outreach Fresno Church, where he touched countless lives. He also demonstrated his compassion by participating in the Prison Ministry for more than 7 years, sharing the message of hope and salvation to those in need.

His love for spreading the gospel was evident in his actions. Pete was known for his evangelism, fearlessly sharing the word of God on street corners, whether with a microphone or bullhorn. His mission was to reach souls and offer comfort to those facing hardships.

Pete's deep connection with God became evident in a life-altering moment in September of 1980. During a motorcycle accident that left him with a split skull, he prayed for a second chance at life and vowed to serve God wholeheartedly. From that day on, he faithfully honored his commitment, serving God for over 43 years with tireless dedication and honor, living as a true man after God's own heart.

He leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, faith, and service to the Lord. Pete's impact on his family, church, and the broader community will be felt for generations to come. He will forever be remembered as an amazing Husband, Father, Papa, and devoted servant of God & Shepherd, leaving behind a legacy of love and inspiration.

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Victoria Michele Ynclan - October 23, 1969 - June 10, 2023

Departed: 06/10/2023 (Fresno)

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Rosemary Pena Sambrano - November 10, 1951 - June 10, 2023

Departed: 06/10/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Rosemary Peña Sambrano, a spirited, faith-filled, and loving soul, was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on June 10, 2023. Born on November 10, 1951, in Tulare, CA, Rosemary was the shining light of Salvador Rojas Fernandez and Juanita Pena Fernandez. She passed away surrounded by her loving family in Fresno, CA, due to health complications related to Covid.

Rosemary is survived by her loving husband, Domingo Perez Sambrano, to whom she was married for over 50 years since 1971. Together, they built a life and raised three children: Mario Domingo Sambrano, Jose Ramon Sambrano, and Rosemary Juanita Sambrano. Her spirit lives on in her loving family, including her six siblings Esther Ibarra, Guadalupe Fernandez (deceased), Salvador Fernandez Jr., Juanita Fernandez, Frank Fernandez, and Rachael Fernandez, her three children, nineteen grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories they shared and the love they received from their dear Rosemary. Rosemary brightened the lives of her best friend of 58 years, Mary Valencia, and fellow church members, Pete and Victoria Luna along with her three beloved doggies: Lucky "Bun", Little Mickey, and Bella Sambrano.

In her professional life, Rosemary was nothing short of inspirational. She began her career at Winchell's Donut House from 1971 until 1985, where she worked alongside her loving parents, husband, and served as a manager. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone bright as she continued her passion for donuts and became the owner of the popular Sal's Donuts House in downtown Fresno from 1986 until her retirement in 2008. Upon her retirement, Rosemary took her talents to Sterling & Smith Funeral Home, where she served as office manager, notary, and ministered to people for over 13 years, from 2007 to 2020.

Rosemary's educational journey began in 1995 with her furthering her spiritual education and ministry at Fresno Victory Outreach Church through the Victory Education & Training Institute. In 2000, Rosemary earned her GED from Cesar Chavez Adult School as valedictorian. She went on to complete her education in paralegal studies, notary, and taxes at Fresno City College.

A woman of many talents, Rosemary's impact on her community was deep and heartfelt. She was known for her award-winning tamales, taking home first place for the best tamales in Fresno County. She was a marriage counselor for blended families and had a special place in her heart for ministering to women. Her love for others was evident in every aspect of her life.

Rosemary's interests were as diverse as her talents. She cherished spending time with her 19 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, traveling with them to destinations like Disneyland, Hawaii, Oregon, and New York. She also enjoyed watching mystery movies and television shows such as Law & Order, Judge Judy, as well as Hulu series like 9-1-1, The Doctor, and The Rookie. Rosemary was a Star Wars and Mandalorian fan who could often be found watching Baby Yoda and eating popcorn with her grand boys, Joshua, Xavier, Christian, just as much as she loved to cook mouth-watering dishes like chicken mole, barbacoa, tamales, menudo, enchiladas, and her delicious potato salad.

Her love for cooking and her community intersected as she often participated in church fundraisers and events. Rosemary's faith was at the core of her being, and she enjoyed preparing food to bring love to the community, an activity that brought her closer to the Creator. Rosemary also formed a girls club called the Yaya Sisters for ten women who enjoyed followship through sharing delicious meals, watching Broadway shows, and train rides to Hanford.

As we gather to celebrate the life of Rosemary Peña Sambrano, we give thanks for the blessings she brought to those around her. She was a woman who did everything she set her heart to do, touching countless lives through her love, service, and ministry. Her unwavering faith, her dedication to her family, and her joyous spirit will forever be etched into the hearts of those she leaves behind. We are comforted in knowing that Rosemary now rests in the loving embrace of her Heavenly Father, and her legacy lives on through the lives she touched.

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Edna Mae Paige - August 13, 1941 - May 29, 2023

Departed: 05/29/2023 (Fresno)

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Lawry Beatrice Wuest - September 24, 1961 - May 20, 2023

Departed: 05/20/2023 (Fresno)

Obituary Preview: Born in Poteau, Oklahoma A beautiful soul gone entirely too soon..... Lawry lived a life that was dedicated to the love and care for animals in need. She loved greatly and laughed often. Anyone who knew her knew the kindness in her heart and the love she had for the people around her. Her family meant everything to her as did the love of her pets and friends. She left a mark in this world that no one else could and will be missed dearly by all.

Proceeded in death by Mother Sharron Gray, Father Raymond Gray and Nephew Justin Gray. Survived by 2 sisters Brenda Mcmahan of Oklahoma & Millie Jo Johnson of California and 1 brother Sonny Gray of Oklahoma. Also survived by 3 nieces Sharron Mcmahan (Arkansas), Serenity Gray (Oklahoma) and Tiffany Johnson (California) 1 nephew Michael Johnson (California), 4 great nephews Michael Ayers, Riley Ayers, Tyler Gray & Michael Johnson and 1 great niece Elizabeth Johnson along with MANY friends that she considered family and her beloved pup Tommy❤️

Celebration of Life being planned for Sept 24, 2023. Details to come.

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Doua Yang - August 01, 1966 - May 12, 2023

Departed: 05/12/2023 (Fresno)

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Daniel Manuel Hernandez - July 08, 1977 - April 24, 2023

Departed: 04/24/2023 (Fresno)

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Donald R Johnson - January 03, 1956 - April 21, 2023

Departed: 04/21/2023 (Fresno)

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Brewster Erwin Lee - March 17, 1953 - April 14, 2023

Departed: 04/14/2023 (Fresno)

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Jason Ryan Shoopman - May 23, 1981 - March 27, 2023

Departed: 03/27/2023 (Fresno)

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Christine Evonne Thompson - May 30, 1955 - March 14, 2023

Departed: 03/14/2023 (Fresno)

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Cynthia Melendez - August 11, 1964 - March 06, 2023

Departed: 03/06/2023 (Fresno)

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Funeral Services Offered

Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, the team at Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. is equipped to handle every aspect of the funeral planning process. They also offer pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make their own funeral arrangements in advance.

Cremation Services

For those who prefer cremation, Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. offers a variety of options. Their cremation services include direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and cremation with a traditional funeral ceremony. They also provide urns and other cremation-related products to help families honor their loved ones.

Pre-Planning Services

Pre-planning is an important consideration for many individuals and families. By making their own funeral arrangements in advance, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected and that their loved ones are spared from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief. Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. offers pre-planning services, allowing individuals to plan their own funeral and make financial arrangements in advance.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. are designed to provide comfort and convenience to families during a difficult time. The funeral home features spacious chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas, as well as ample parking and easy accessibility. They also offer a range of amenities, including audio-visual equipment, catering services, and online obituaries.

Community Involvement

Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. is deeply committed to the Fresno community. They participate in local events and charities, and are involved in various organizations that support bereaved families and individuals. By giving back to the community, the team at Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. demonstrates their dedication to serving others.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted and compassionate funeral home in Fresno, California, consider contacting Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Their office is located at 1103 E Street, Fresno, CA, 93706.

In times of loss and grief, it's comforting to know that there are professionals who care about you and your family. At Sterling & Smith Funeral Directors, Inc., you'll find a team of dedicated professionals who will guide you through the funeral planning process with compassion and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community. They provide a sense of closure and allow people to pay their respects to the deceased. Obituaries also help to preserve the memory of the person who has passed away.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may offer assistance with writing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, and information about their family, such as surviving relatives and predeceased loved ones. It may also include details about their occupation, hobbies, achievements, and any notable accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform where it will be published. Typically, an obituary should be between 100-500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary for publication?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or online platform. You may need to email or fax the obituary to the publication, or submit it through an online form. Be sure to check the submission guidelines carefully before submitting your obituary.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Some publications may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals that include additional services like online memorials or guest books.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they are remembered. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It is often used in conjunction with a more detailed obituary.

What is a funeral notice?

A funeral notice is a specific type of death notice that includes details about the funeral or memorial service, such as the date, time, location, and officiant.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include quotes, poems, or other literary passages in an obituary as a way to add personal touches and reflect the personality of the deceased.

How do I announce a death on social media?

If you want to announce a death on social media, it's best to keep the post brief and respectful. You might say something like "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of [name]. We will miss them dearly." You can also share a link to the full obituary if desired.

What is an online memorial?

An online memorial is a virtual space where people can leave condolences, share memories, and pay tribute to the deceased. Many funeral homes and crematoriums offer online memorials as part of their services.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause that was important to them.

How do I write an obituary for someone who died suddenly or tragically?

In cases where someone has died suddenly or tragically, it may be especially difficult to write an obituary. Try to focus on celebrating their life and accomplishments rather than dwelling on the circumstances of their death.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include humorous anecdotes or quotes in an obituary as a way to celebrate the personality of the deceased. Just be sure to keep it tasteful and respectful.

How do I handle errors or corrections in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an obituary after it has been published, contact the publication or online platform immediately. They will work with you to correct the mistakes and republish the revised obituary.

Can I reuse an old obituary for someone who has passed away again?

No, it's generally not appropriate to reuse an old obituary for someone who has passed away again. Instead, write a new obituary that reflects their life since the previous passing.

What is a legacy.com page?

A Legacy.com page is an online memorial page where people can leave condolences, share memories, and pay tribute to the deceased. These pages are often linked to from online obituaries.

How long will my online obituary remain available?

The length of time that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the publication or platform. Some may keep archives indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I create my own online memorial website?

Yes, there are many tools and platforms available that allow you to create your own online memorial website. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life of your loved one and share memories with others.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech or written tribute that celebrates the life of someone who has passed away. It is often delivered at a funeral or memorial service by a family member or close friend.

How do I write a eulogy?

To write a eulogy, start by brainstorming stories and memories about the person who has passed away. Focus on their strengths, accomplishments, and personality traits. Try to find ways to weave these elements together into a cohesive narrative that celebrates their life.

Can I include music or videos in an online memorial?

Yes, many online memorial platforms allow you to upload music or videos as part of the tribute. This can be a powerful way to evoke emotions and celebrate the life of your loved one.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

If you're finding it difficult to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress, consider reaching out to a trusted friend or family member for support. You might also consider seeking guidance from a funeral home or crematorium staff member who can offer guidance and resources.