Sterling Buford Barbee

Sterling Buford Barbee, 84, of Concord, North Carolina, passed away on February 24, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House.

Sterling was born May 18, 1941, in Stanly County, North Carolina. He was the son of the late Annie Lee Helms Barbee and the late Buford Samuel Barbee. He was also preceded in death by two sons, Jerry Van Barbee and Roy Eugene Barbee; siblings, including David Wayne Barbee, Ricky Lane Barbee, Peggy Jean Cox, and Katherine Porter.

Sterling spent many years working in the hosiery mill industry as a dyer, and later found great pride in his work in security. He served as the Security Captain at Barber-Scotia College, a role he enjoyed deeply and was proud to hold.

A man of faith, Sterling was known as a Christian and a God-fearing man. His family finds comfort in the assurance that he is now in Heaven and no longer in pain.

Sterling enjoyed simple pleasures-especially fishing and taking trips to the mountains, memories his family will always treasure.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Anna Floyd Barbee, of Concord; four daughters, Donna Michelle Gray and husband David Gray, Anita Gale Avery and husband Ricky, and Angela "Elaine" Smith and husband Ronald, Elizabeth Sehorn and husband Billy; brother, Ronnie Lee Barbee,  all of Concord.

Sterling leaves behind a large and loving family, including seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. (The family will provide names to be listed.)