With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sterling Compton Broyles II at the age of 71. Sterling was a beloved husband, dedicated Dad, cherished Pawpaw, and devoted friend. We are rejoicing that he has been made whole by his Savior.
Sterling was born on September 20, 1952 in Marlinton, W.Va. His family moved around the country a great deal but ended up in Roanoke. He attended Northside High School where he graduated in 1970. After high school, he graduated from East Tennessee State University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, where he met the girl of his dreams, Debbie. Sterling and Debbie were married on August 9,1975. They built a life they loved in Roanoke and Botetourt where they grew the family they had always dreamed of.
Sterling was a man who loved Jesus. He was a member of Hollins Road Baptist Church, where he faithfully served the Lord since 1986. He was an adult Sunday School teacher, Chairman of the Deacons and loved this group of men dearly. He went on multiple mission trips, and led the Congregations in Action which feeds many school-aged children on the weekends. Many of his closest friendships were made at Hollins Road Baptist Church.
Sterling dedicated 30+ years of his life to shaping young minds as a teacher at Monterey Elementary School in Roanoke City, where he taught 4th and 5th grades, including his own children and future son-in-law. He was lovingly known as “Mr. B” by his students. His passion for knowledge and love of sharing stories left an indelible mark on generations of students.
He was a dedicated real estate agent for 40+ years helping countless families find a place to call home.
Sterling is preceded in death by his mother and father, Nancy Atkison Cochran (Abe) and Sterling Compton Broyles Sr. (Deloris) and dear friends, Phil Smith and Chuck Kolenski.
He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie, of 48 years; his brother, Stephen Broyles (Susie); brother-in-law, Mike Phillippi (Katie); as well as his mother-in-law, Cloyce Eller. Sterling is also remembered as the best dad in the world by his three cherished children: Megan Young (Brandon), Sterling Broyles III (Stephanie), and Katie Mullins (Robert). He is also survived by his grandchildren. Pawpaw was his favorite title to hold. He adored Lucas and Levi Young, as well as Oliver, Theodore, and Eleanor Mullins.
Sterling will be deeply missed by many close friends, nieces, nephews, and cousins that all had the privilege of knowing him. He loved and enjoyed spending time with them all. If you were loved by Sterling, you knew it, because he told everyone he loved them.
We are eternally grateful to the Hospice Team at Good Samaritan Hospice for caring so lovingly for Sterling and his family in his final days. The nurses, Nadia and Jessica, were the best!
A Celebration of Life was held at Hollins Road Baptist Church, Roanoke, on Saturday, March 30. Visitation was from 2-4 p.m. and the service followed at 4 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Congregations in Action at Hollins Road Baptist Church, 3502 Old Mountain Road,, Roanoke, 24019 or the Good Samaritan Hospice, 4751 Cove Road, NW, Roanoke, 24017.
