Sterling Jones of Elma passed away Nov. 24, 2021, on his 75th birthday from lung cancer.

Sterling was born in Tacoma, Washington to Henry Sterling Jones and Elizabeth Mary Jones. He was raised in Yelm and graduated from Yelm High School in 1965 and briefly attended the University of Washington. Sterling and his two boyhood friends, Gary Demich and Seth Drogseth, were known as the “Three Musketeers” as they spent so much time together. He married Ruby Hull in 1967. They had two children, Mark and Margaux. They later divorced.

Sterling started work as an engineering aide with the Washington Department of HIghway in 1967. In 1981, he transferred to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife where he worked until his first retirement in 1992. He re-entered employment with Fish and Wildlife in 2005 and re-retired in 2009.

Sterling married his wife, Betty, in 1989. After retirement, he enjoyed RVing with his 5th wheel with Betty. He also enjoyed fishing and wood working in his shop, and hunting for antiques at garage sales, as well as playing with his Sheltie. He also spent time building horse stalls and fences, and remodeling the family home and carport.

He is survived by his wife Betty; brother Ray; son Mark and daughter Margaux; and three grandchildren: Hunter, Shayla and Timmy.

A graveside service will take place Monday, Dec, 6 at 2 p.m. at Wynoochee Cemetery in Montesano.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary of Montesano.