August Sterling

August Sterling, a cherished family man, peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 93. Surrounded by the love of his family, he left behind a legacy of unwavering faith, kindness, and an extraordinarily quiet strength that touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.  After a remarkable 93 years filled with love, faith, service, and cherished memories, August was called home to his eternal reward. 

August leaves behind his loving wife of 71 years, Theresa Sterling; daughters Patricia Cardenas (Julian) of Wichita Falls, TX; Loretta Shephard (Dale) of Duncanville, TX; and Rosita Jenkins (Calvin) of Midlothian, TX; daughter-in love, Derricka Guidry of Lake Charles, LA; 12 beloved grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and his beloved grand-fur babies, Daisy, Hazel, Rocky, Gucci, and Sasha. 

August was preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Francis Sterling; his brothers, Elliot Sterling, Philbert Sterling, John Earlis Sterling, and Adam Sterling; his sisters, Agnes Duhon and Genevieve Perkins; and his son, Ronald Wayne Guidry. 

Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, on October 28, 1932, August was a man of few words, but he radiated warmth and a profound sense of humor. Whether he was tending to a neighbor’s lawn or enjoying a cup of coffee in his favorite chair, he displayed a calming presence that brought peace and steadiness to those around him.  August’s heart belonged to God, his family, his church, and his community.  Every morning, he would begin his day with a moment of prayer and a quiet reading of his Bible.  As a lifelong member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Lake Charles, Louisiana, he dedicated his life to serving faithfully, as a Deacon and Alter Servant.  His unwavering commitment and faithful service was recognized when he was honored twice with the Devoted Service Medal, a testament to his exceptional service at the parish level. His commitment to his church and community was reflected in his involvement with the Knights of Peter Claver, Immaculate Heart of Mary Council and Court 141, as well as The Society of the Holy Name.  August also had a heart for helping others in practical and meaningful ways.  He was known for tending to neighbor’s lawns and caring for those around him.  In addition to cutting grass, he would chop and split firewood for members of the community, helping to ensure that elderly neighbors had enough wood to keep warm throughout the winter.  His quiet acts of kindness reflected the generous spirit that defined his life. 

August’s service to his country was a source of great pride.  He served honorably in the United States Navy, where he was one of the first African American Frogmen (Navy SEAL).  During the Korean War, August was captured and became a prisoner of war (POW) while carrying out a dangerous underwater mission to set charges on a bridge.  His courage, discipline, and commitment to duty reflected the same quiet strength he carried throughout his life. 

August’s passing leaves behind a profound void for his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who have expressed their sincere concern during this difficult time. Their love and remembrance serve as touching reminders of the immense respect and admiration he received throughout his life. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, August Sterling leaves a lasting legacy of faith, courage, service, family, humility, humor, and compassion. His life was a blessing; his memory will be cherished, and his example will continue to live on through the generations he loved so dearly. 

Viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at The New Shiloh Baptist Church, 600 N. Simmons Street, Lake Charles, LA.  Followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:30 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, located at 2031 Opelousas Street, Lake Charles, LA.  Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery with Military Honors Provided by the United States Navy under the direction of Semien-Lewis Mortuary of Jennings, LA.