Sterling Eugene Smith, age 86, of Bakersfield, California, passed away Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at his Residence.

He was born Saturday, December 16, 1939, In Shawnee Oklahoma, a son of the late Lemon Smith and Dollie Lucas.

Sterling worked drilling water wells for more than 50 years and was a proud business owner. Sterling enjoyed working, hunting, fishing and eating a good steak.

In addition to his parents, Sterling was proceeded in death by three brothers, M.C Smith, Melvin Smith and Basil Smith; Two sisters, Winifred Smith and Juanita Smith.

Sterling is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carole Jeanette Struempf; one daughter, Janet Smith; one grandson, Derek Sanchez.