Phillips Funeral Service, Inc. | High Point, NC

Obituary For Mr. Sterling Fair

Mr. Sterling Dae Fair began his life’s journey August 8, 2004, at the Women’s Hospital in Greensboro, North Carolina. Sterling departed this earthly life on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC. He was the first son born to Reginald Fair and Vonetta Nichelle Fair of Winston-Salem, NC. He was also preceded in death by his great-grandmothers, Blanche Dewitt, Mary Elizabeth Fair, Frankie Gray and great-grandfather, James O. Holmes.

At an early age, Sterling’s teachers recognized his innate intelligence and zeal for learning. As an elementary school student at Caleb’s Creek, Sterling participated in the Academically Gifted Program. He maintained this status throughout his school career. Sterling attended Southeast Middle School and was a member of the Debate Team. He was an honor student at the Early College of Forsyth. Sterling was an outstanding player of the Glenn High School Football Team. He played as a defensive back. He was a longtime member of the Union Cross Bobcats Football team. His favorite NFL team was the Detroit Lions. Sterling also, had a love for track and was a member of the Winston-Salem Roadrunners Track Club. Sterling was very humble, compassionate, and loving person. His teachers remember him for his great smile and spirit. Most importantly, Sterling was a devoted big brother who would step in and make sure that he his younger brothers had lunches until they were old enough to do it on their own. He cared for their well-being and would quickly alert others of his brother, Saxen’s peanut allergy.

He is survived by his adoring parents, Reginald and Vonetta; his sister, Ianya Fair; his brothers, Saxen and Soren Fair; grandparents, Belinda Fair, Raphael Sams, Donald and Barbara Hall; great-grandmother, Betty Jo Holmes; uncle, Correy (Kachenia) Hall; a host of great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, football family, track family and friends. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”Proverbs 3:5-6

A private graveside service will be held Friday, January 29, 2021 at Carolina Biblical Gardens.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.

Guest Book

To the Fair Family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I did not know Sterling, and am just beginning to know Reginald as a co-worker. I do have a glimpse into the humble,compassionate and loving person that Sterling must have been through those same traits I experience in Reginald. I can't begin to know the depth of your grief but pray the memories of Sterling will light the way. Joanna Burgess-Stocks

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I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. - Mani Gopal

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Reginald- I am so sorry to hear about your loss. There is nothing that I can say or do to fill the void he left. What I can offer is friendship, love, and a shoulder in your time of need. If you need strength or just someone to listen, I am here. I am sending you my deepest condolences and all the love my heart can muster. Troy Mizgala

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I never met you Sterling, but I feel like I got to know you from you dad. I work with Reginald and we would swap stories about our kids. He was so proud of you and would humbly brag about what a hard worker you were, from school, to track to football. I cannot fathom the great hole in your families hearts right now. Praying for the entire Fair family.~ Rachel Kaminski

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Sterling was a hard working individual who also wanted to see everyone around him succeed, prayers continue to go to the family

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Sending my condolences to the family, it saddens me to see how young he was, I can't imagine the pain to lose a child, I wanted to share a scripture from the Bible 1 Corinthians 15;21 were it says death came through a man and so will the resurrection the man is Jesus. I pray you all trust in Jesus.

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There was never a time I saw Sterling and he wasn't smiling. He had a natural glow and seemed so nice to be around. I know that glow is still with him in heaven. Prayers to the Fair family.

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I had the opportunity to go to school with Sterling. He was such an amazing person, and I'm blessed to say I knew him. Hearing about Sterling's passing was very disturbing, the whole school was sad to lose someone from the ECF family, but he is in a way better place now. My family and I are sending our deepest condolences and our prayers. May God bless you all and help you through these difficult times.

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Coach Fair, Nichelle, & the boys......there are no words to say that will stop the indescribable pain you are feeling, but we are praying. Sterling was so kind & so respectful.....and his smile would light up a room. We know that God is a keeper even at our darkest hour. May He grant you peace & comfort as each of heal. ~~Team Fulp; Darnell, Jennifer, Jadyn, & Jordyn~~

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My little cousin Sterling💔...to see how your life in just 16yrs affected so many people, it made my heart smile even tho it's broken. To my cousin Reg who is more like my brother...you and Nichelle hold on to Gods unchanging hand. Reg remember what we were taught by Nana & remember what I told you. When you don't have the words, all you have is tears and pain TRUST GOD. Like the Pastor said we have to learn to accept what God allows. God had a plan and a purpose for Sterlings life and he went above and beyond Gods calling for his life in just 16 years. If I can be half the impact to the world at the end of my life that Sterling was in 16yrs I'd be blessed. God prepared a place for Sterling and he's smiling down from the table with God and Nana. He's in good care. Cuz I pray that God grants you, Nichelle, Saxon and Soarin a peace that surpasses your own understanding. You have a family support system that is here for you day or night. I love you so much...you are an AMAZING individual and a PHENOMENAL FATHER! Sterling was the great young man he was BECAUSE OF YOU! NEVER FORGET THAT! YOU and NICHELLE DID EVERYTHING RIGHT & the outpouring of love at his celebration of life is proof of that. Love you guys❤️ ~Tish~

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One of the sweetest and most caring people ever. You were the best friend that anyone could ever ask for and I'll cherish every moment that I got to spend with you. Sending my deepest condolences to the entire family. My heart goes out to all of you.💙💙

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The Bennett family of Conway, SC sends our deepest condolences for your loss. We love you all.

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Vonetta, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. "The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Miranda Shrewsbury and family

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sterling was the happiest boy i knew, i send prayers and comfort to his family, i hope you heal-bre b

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Sterling was such a sweet young man, always smiling, and very well-mannered. I remember meeting Sterling as a little boy when he and Teon played Bobcat football and Upward basketball together. I enjoyed watching Sterling on the Glenn High football field and seeing him excel. May God continue to cover you doing this difficult time, just know you will forever be in my prayers. LaQuetta Best

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To the Fair family, sending continuous prayers for comfort and strength. RaSheeda Lloyd Markell Lloyd (Union Cross Bobcats and Glenn teammate and friend)

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The Dowd Family would like to offer our sympathy during the loss of your terrific son Sterling. He was a great competitor in the sport of track and field. Robert,Della and Jada Dowd. Lights Out Track and Field Club.🥇

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Sterling, My heart is heavy but my soul rejoices knowing that we will meet again one day. You were in my life for 16 years and now in my heart forever. Although it seems to short for me, it was more than enough for God and for you to leave your legacy. Here's what I will always remember about you Sterling Dae Fair: - your radiant SMILE 😃 - your hardy Laugh 😆 - you training DJ Reader #98 for the Bengals on his footwork as he prepared for the 2016 NFL Combine! WOW! What an awesome legacy in 16 years; Rest Easy Young King, I got Dad, Mom, sister and your 2 brothers covered! Love Felicia Ford Reader aka MamaReader and the Reader family (DJ & Rocky) "God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble."‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46:1‬ ‭ASV‬‬

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Jesus said I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live. May God's promises sustain you and give you strength and comfort in the days ahead. Our prayers and condolences to the families.

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Sterling had the most gentle and quiet spirit so kind and humble. He truly was a young man I didn't mind my son being with. He was a very good kid, a great influence to my son. We meet the Fair's during our children's elementary years. We introduced them to football when at the time all Sterling cared about was basketball. Once he decided to give football a shot, he was hooked. This is where our journey began and we have been family every since. In order to keep the boys active and together they branched off to basketball at the YMCA after football season then moved on to track and field. Along the way our circle became bigger And now we are all family the Powells, Joines, and Freemans. Sterling was always dedicated to his work ethic. All the boys would push and motivate each other to excel. As the years would roll on Sterling just kept growing, he took his talent to the next level. And during that time he remained humble. He continued to be a great friend to Chaney. Chaney will truly miss his goofy fun personality. Coach Roy and I will miss your beautiful smile and your leadership. You were truly a leader on the field and off. We will miss you our sweet Sterling. Love the Chaney Wanda and Coach Roy.

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Coach Fair our thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. We are Praying strength for you. Please know we are here if you need anything. Brian, Cathy,Brittany, LeShana Collins and Zavion Richardson.

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Continuous prayers for comfort and strength. With love-Kisha, Silk, JT, and RayShawn

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To Coach Fair and Family, We send our deepest condolences to you all during this difficult time. We pray that God wraps his loving arms around each of you, and gives you the love, peace and understanding that surpasses all. Love, Solo Brown & Mom

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My prayers are with you and your family during this tragic time. Sterling was a great young man. He always would come by the Athletic Training room with the rest of the team after school to talk and hang out. His smile always lit up the room and those around him. We will greatly miss him. Joshua 1:9. Candace Morales, athletic trainer

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Sending Love And Prayers To The Family

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My Sterling: S anguine T eachable E nthusiastic R azor sharp L ovable I nspiring N ervy G oofy but Godsend His ability to be cheerfully optimistic will always be remembered. His approach to being the best was never boastful but his work ethic both academically and athletically spoke volumes. He exemplified what the " Bobcat Way" is all about. I Love him. I miss him. I thank his family for rewarding me the opportunity to coach Sterling.

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Fair family, We are praying for comfort and peace for your beautiful family. Sending our love and deepest sympathy . Never forgotten.....#4 #26.... The Cook family

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Sorry for your loss Coach Fair Carlos Patterson BobCat family

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My prayers and condolences to the family. Sterling was a great kid. I had the pleasure of coaching him for a season at Winston Lake YMCA. He will truly be missed. The Carter Family ( John, Alison, Jordan, Gabrielle and Hannah)

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Reggie and family, you have our deepest sympathy for your loss. We are lifting you up in prayer. LeAndre Primus & Family

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Nichelle, I am broken hearted to hear of the loss of your son. Nothing is as precious as the bond between mother and child. I pray that you and your family and every soul that Sterling's light touched be healed from your sorrow in due time. May his light forever shine in your hearts.

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Nichelle, I am at a loss for words. It saddens me to have to leave this message. You all have love and prayers from myself and my family. I am so truly sorry for your loss. ~Tamika (Whitworth) Bristow

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Michelle, I am at a loss for words. It saddens me to have to leave this message. You all have love and prayers from myself and my family. I am so truly sorry for your loss.

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Sterling was a wonderful young man, whose smile brightened every room he entered. It was truly an honor and a blessing for me to have had the opportunity to coach and get to know Sterling. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with your son. Jeremiah 17:14 Rodney Alexander

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Nichelle, I am so sorry to hear about this. It is something no parent wants to go through. My husband and I will continue to pray for you, your husband and your family. Allow yourselves to grieve and allow Holy Spirit to minister to you. Many things will go unanswered, but Sterling will always be your baby and nothing will ever change that. We are all here for you when you need us. Just let us know how we can help and what we can do. ❤❤❤ Nichica

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I had classes with Sterling freshman and sophomore year. I didn't know him well, but he was always kind to me and everyone else. His smile and laughter brought joy to so many people. He will be missed, and I will always remember him. I'm so sorry for your loss, and I'm sending my deepest condolences to your family.

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Sterling #26 was a shining light, on and off the field. He inspired so many young athletes and always encouraged others with his smile. Our love and prayers are with the family. With love, Scott, Michelle and Grayson Treadway

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My heart is broken as I hold my daughter and we talk about what has happened. I cannot express my sadness for you... we will pray for you continually, for your healing. Stephanie and Kamryn Lee

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Kendrick and I are praying for your strength during this difficult time.

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Praying for the family. What a bright and talented young man. You will truly be missed. Much love, Ricardi Ellison(Zyon's Dad).

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To the Fair family we offer our deepest sympathy. May God bring peace and comfort to your family during this time. Sterling was an exceptional young man always with a great smile of his face. Prayers, Dean and Bradyn Callahan

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Dearest Vonetta and family, Please accept our deepest sympathies. We are keeping you all in our prayers. May God bring you peace. Heartfelt Regards, Jim and the Tobin Family

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Vonetta, Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to you and your family. Jackie Inge

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To know him, was to love him. Sterling was a model student that was very kind, smart and respectful. I taught him eighth grade. I am deeply saddened by hearing of his passing. I share in your loss of this young man with such a promising future. I pray that God gives each of you added strength during this very difficult time. Sterling was a lovable young man and I hope his memories bring you joy in the days ahead. May God bless you and the entire Fair family. Vanessa Mills-Southeast Middle School

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To Vonetta and family - my sincere condolences and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I am praying that the peace and comfort that can only come from God rests upon you. Jerrie Carter

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Psalm 46:1 I offer prayers and support to the family.

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On behalf of the William Penn High School class of 1966, we send our heartfelt condolences to the Hall and Fair families. May God ease your pain and heal your broken hearts

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To Reggie and Vonetta - Our hearts are heavy and feel the sorrow of your loss. We pray God embraces your family through this most difficult time. We know Sterling's transition to heaven was welcomed by all of his ancestors that waits his entrance❤️.Melissa, Wayne and Writni Johnson

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Vonetta, My heart breaks for you and your family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers! Lisa Alameda

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Your family is in my thoughts and prayers... - Denis Byrne

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Vonetta, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May GOD give you peace. Renee' Murphy

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Vonetta, may God wrap his arms around you and your family during these difficult times. Continued thoughts and prayers. -Lily Vargas

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To the Fair family from the Todd family. Sending our condolence to your family, and praying that God continues to give your family strength through this.

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From the Todd family...sending our condolences to the Fair family. Praying that God gives your family strength through this difficult time.

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Vonetta, you and your family have my deepest sympathy. Letha Pickett

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My "Baby" Sterling, your intelligence, your sweet soul and spirit will always be a beacon of light! You touched so many people, your happiness was always infectious! I'm so grateful, thankful and blessed God placed the Fair family in my life through you! Since the moment you walked in my class you were my "Baby" and I love you with all that I am and all I will ever be. Even at 16 you still allowed me to call you my first Fair "Baby" and you received my hugs just as if you were still in 5th grade! My Fair family, Reginald, Nichelle, Saxen and Soren, I love you dearly! My heart is also heavy, my spirit too is desolated, and an anguished soul has also encumbered my existence. Yet, I thank God and praise his holy name through it all. God blessed me, you all shared Sterling with me for a season and I thank God and my Fair family for one of my greatest blessing! Words are not adequate but prayers are. Words are not adequate, yet know that I am here! I will continue to lift you up in prayer. I ask that God comfort each of you in your loss, hold you all in your sorrow and sustain my Fair family through the grief. Heavenly Father, enfold them all with your love that they may rest within your arms. In Jesus' name ....Amen I love you all... Ms. Hill

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I was so disturbed to hear of Sterling's passing. As his first grade teacher, I got to see his character and enthusiastic loving spirit as it developed. I remember his smile, his popularity with classmates, his love of sports, and his love of family. I pray for a peace that passes understanding for his parents and brothers.

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Our hearts are broken and we cannot imagine the pain you are going through. Please accept our deepest condolences. We will continue to pray for you all that God will give you peace and comfort through this and the years to come. Rest In Peace #4 Much Love~Damian, Sam, Davyn & Darian

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Sending love and light to our family. Praying for strength during this difficult time. ~Jimmy Johnson &Family

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From the McKnight family to the Fair family, we send our deepest condolences to your family. You are in our prayers. Jeano McKnight

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I won't forget the first time I met Sterling. He was always compassionate and caring when it came to others. He had a funny sense of humor and never came to school without a smile. He's smiling now.

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Prayers for your family. Sterling had a kind heart and a strong soul. I'll never forget him.

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The love and joy that Sterling brought to our family, he will never be forgotten. We love your family and we are praying for you all. Victoria, Larry, Lyndon and Dylan White

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Nichelle, My heart goes out to you! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, that God comforts you and gives you PEACE during this time. I love you and here if you need anything. Lavonda

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To the Fair family, Words can not express the sorrow you are experiencing. Sterling was an extraordinary gift to all who knew him. He will truly be missed and know that my family is praying for comfort as you endure this tremendous loss. The Williams' family

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To the Fair and Hall Families: We are lifting you all in prayer during this difficult time. May you feel God's love, strength, and peace in the days ahead. We are here for you. Love, The Parker Dozen

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i didnt know him but i heard he was sweet and a good football player

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Vonetta, Extending my deepest sympathy to you and your family during this time. My prayers and blessings are with you. Wanda Boyd

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You were such a sweet and kind soul, you always checked up on everyone, you will be missed. Prayers for your family💕

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My heart breaks for the loss of your sweet son. My prayers are with you and may God grant you peace. Kj37g

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Phillips Funeral Service, Inc. | High Point, NC