Charles Sterling Gaither

Charles Sterling Gaither entered quietly and peacefully into eternal rest on Thursday, November 29, 2001 at his home. Sterling, son of the late Clifton S. and Catherine H. Gaither, was born in Anne Arundel County on January 8, 1919. He received his education in the public schools of Anne Arundel County. His religious training began as a child when he attended church with his mother, who was a devout Catholic. He attended St. Monica’s Catholic Church in Baltimore. Later he became a member of St. Veronica’s Roman Catholic Church where he was a faithful parishioner and never missed a Sunday until he became ill. He served in the church as a member of The Holy Name Society, a Minister of Hospitality, and the Knights of Columbus, where he attained the 4th Degree. Sterling married the former Thelma O. Burley, and from this union two daughters were born, Shirley and Barbara. A son, Donald L. Gaither, preceded him in death. He worked at Flight Refueling and was later employed by the Westinghouse Corporation until his retirement in February of 1981. Sterling was a fun-loving person, who enjoyed people. No one was a stranger to him and he especially loved children. The loves of his life were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was the perfect babysitter for Courtney and Cayla from the time they were born. He enjoyed taking his great-granddaughters to the school bus stop every morning. Baseball was one of Sterling’s favorite sports. He also enjoyed hunting in the fall, and gardening in the spring and summer. He always shared the bounty of his garden with his family and friends. He leaves to honor and cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Thelma, two daughters, Shirley Hines and Barbara Chester; five grandchildren, Stephanie Nelson, Tracy Hines, Debra Lawson, Donald Craig Gaither, and Shawn Gaither; three great-grandchildren, Courtney Nelson, Cayla Nelson and Derrek Lovelace; one sister, Mary Beaula Moore; one brother, James Clifton (Walston) Gaither; two sons-in-law, Robert L. Hines and Bernard Chester; one grandson-in-law, two goddaughters, Courtney Norton and Jasmine Howard; two devoted friends, Portia Booth and Linda Slaughter; and a host of relatives and friends

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Charles Sterling Gaither

January 8, 1919 - November 29, 2001