Frances Reese Sterling

Frances Reese Sterling, 96, of Newberry, died Sunday, March 29, 2026 at J.F. Hawkins Nursing Home.

Born on October 13, 1929, in Newberry, SC, she was the daughter of the late William Lloyd and Daisy Warren Reese.

Frances was a strong and kind person who committed her life to her family, her work, and her passion for animals – especially dogs. A charter member of the Newberry County Humane Society, she would never pass up a dog in need, even if it meant stopping on the road or entering someone’s yard to help.

Her work in finance, first as a teller and head teller at South Carolina National Bank and later in financial management for the City of Newberry where she retired, provided many good memories and close friends.

She loved her family, and worked hard to give them the best that she could.

She is survived by her sons, Eric J. Miller (Shaye), Ranse R. Miller (Linda), and James Michael “Mike” Sterling (Robyn); grandchildren Thomas J. Miller (Kayla), Beth Miller (Mitch), Marina Fulmer (Patrick), Meghan Morse (Dean), and Heather Hunter (Chris); 15 great-grandchildren; and 2 great great-granddaughters.

Frances was predeceased by her husband James Everette Sterling; a grandson Payton Reppart, and a granddaughter Angela Greene. She was also predeceased by her first husband, W.M. Miller.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 12:00 PM at Newberry Memorial Gardens by Pastor Jeff O’Dell.

Memorials are suggested to the Newberry County Humane Society, PO Box 485, Newberry, SC 29108.

The family expresses gratitude to the team members of J.F. Hawkins Nursing Home, Unit 3, and Three Oaks Hospice for the excellent and compassionate care provided to Frances.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Sterling family.