Brad Edward Sterling, 54, of Springfield, IL passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at his home. He was born on September 23, 1971, in Peoria, IL, the beloved son of Riley and Barbara Sterling, formerly of Chillicothe, IL.
Brad was a 1989 graduate of Illinois Valley Central High School (IVC) in Chillicothe, IL. While attending IVC, Brad was very involved in school activities and excelled in numerous sports, including Baseball, Football and Hockey. Brad had a special place in his heart for the Chillicothe community and spoke often of returning to reside there in his retirement years where some of his close friends currently live.
After graduating from IVC High School, Brad attended Western Illinois University (WIU) to pursue his bachelor’s degree. In 1994, Brad graduated from WIU with a BS in Criminal Justice and a desire to serve the residents of Sangamon County where he worked in county government.
In 1999, Brad made the bold decision to apply for the Illinois State Police (ISP) academy. Brad was accepted and graduated from the academy in 2000 with a strong desire to pursue a passion for law enforcement. He worked as a state trooper in various communities throughout IL and eventually advanced to the level of Sergeant in the ISP Homicide division. Brad worked the remainder of his 20-year career and retired from the ISP in August 2024.
Brad is survived by his two loving children, Hannah Sterling and Grant Sterling, who will miss him immensely. Brad was an extremely proud father of these two special children. He enjoyed attending Hannah’s dance competitions and watching her become proficient. His best memories with Grant were tinkering in the garage and riding dirt bikes on the track. He spoke often of their success in life and the character they have developed. Also surviving are his father, Riley Sterling; mother, Barbara Sterling; brother, Steve Gross (Missy); sister, Sally Snow (Drew); brother, Jeff Sterling (Tamara); two nephews, Nathaniel Sterling and Samuel Gross; and his loving companion of 5 years, Valorie Wilson, who has unconditionally loved and cherished Brad through the many phases of his law enforcement career. We are thankful to Valorie for the love and commitment she sewed into Brad’s life.
Those who knew Brad will remember him for his incredible humor, infectious laugh and his willingness to do anything for anybody. He left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.
Visitation: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home - Springfield.
Funeral Service: 5:15 p.m., Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Staab Funeral Home - Springfield, with Reverend Zachary Samples officiating. Cremation will take place following services and will be accorded by Staab Funeral Home - Springfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
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