Sterling J. Freeman

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, Sterling Johnson Freeman – a man of strength, wisdom, and kindness- took his final breath with his daughter by his bedside. Sterling, age, 90 was born on October 23, 1934 in Chester, Pennsylvania to the late Henrietta Freeman Elam and Allen Johnson Freeman. He was married to Delores Olivia Freeman for 49 years until her passing in 2010. He was the loving father of Berlin Necole Bell-LeVan (John) of Downingtown, PA and Kacy Nairobi Freeman, San Diego, California. He was also the proud grandfather of Novian Winters LeVan, Shawna Smith, and Shari Smith. He also cherished, April Bell of Wilmington, Delaware whom he often referred to as his other daughter. Sterling, also known as Daddy, Freddy Freeman, and Free attended the Chester Upland School district and was employed with the General Motors Corporation for 43 years - a career he truly loved. Known for his strong work ethic, he rarely missed a day and upon retirement, he joked that they had to "kick him out" for him to leave. He often referred to himself as "a jack of all trades' because he could fix practically anything if given a toolbox and the directions to the nearest Home Depot. And if he didn't know how to do something, he bought a book and learned. He never took educating oneself for granted. His favorite pastimes included going to the movies - especially cowboy films - and listening to jazz and what he called "mood music," by Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and other classic crooners. He believed in staying active and often said, "You have to keep moving," a philosophy that surely contributed to his longevity. One of his greatest pleasures was visiting the casino, which was his favorite place to relax and have fun. When he was well, Sterling valued staying connected with family. He believed in visiting the old school way - by showing up unannounced just to say hello and share time together. He held a quiet personal faith, shared with the family and friends who knew him best. Preceding him in death were his brothers Robert "Pete" Wilson, Jr. and Allen Theordore Freeman. To cherish his memory, are Sterling's two sisters, Rosabelle Pierce (Carroll) Middletown, Delaware, Dorisann Turman (Samuel), Reading, PA, a special cousin Conrad Cassell, of Antigua West Indies and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and longtime friends Stanley "Mickey" Mathis, Edith Murray, and Dorothea Vann. Sterling's presence will be deeply missed by those who love him. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sterling J. Freeman, please visit our floral store.