Henry Thomas Sterling III

Henry Thomas Sterling III, age 80 of East Norriton, Pennsylvania, went peacefully to his heavenly home on Tuesday, June 25th after a courageous twenty-five year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Henry, affectionally known as Tim was born on October 3rd, 1943 in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. Son of the late Henry Thomas Sterling Jr. and Mary Jane Sterling (Gluckert) of Springfield Township, PA he attended Archmere Academy in Claymont Delaware with fellow classmate, Joseph Biden (President). Tim graduated from both St. Josephs and Vanderbilt Universities, finishing with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology.

An accomplished clinician, Tim had a natural ability to connect with people and his extensive career included employment at EPI (Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute) and later served as Director of Bristol Bensalem Behavioral Health Services in Bucks County. He dedicated his career to improving mental health and enriching the lives of countless individuals in his community.

When not working, Tim embraced life with an insatiable curiosity and a passion for exploration. He and his spouse of 54 years, James (Jack) Cornish traveled the globe together. Tim’s other journeys took him to the farthest corners of the earth, trekking the desert in Egypt for 2 months with only a camel, guide and a tent, scaling the Alpine Peaks and venturing through volcanic tunnels in Hawaii. His extensive world travels brought him to a place where he returned several times. He found particular joy in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica. It was there, amidst icy realms and under endless skies that his deep connection to the natural world flourished. A seasoned traveler and photographer, Tim captured the essence of wildlife with his lens, but a part of his heart belonged to the penguins. His fascination with these charismatic birds knew no bounds, and he cherished every encounter, from the playful antics of the Adélie penguins to the majestic presence of the Emperor and Chinstrap penguins.

Tim lived life with an exquisite appreciation for beauty and culture. He was a connoisseur of antiques, with an eye for the rare and exquisite, and his collection of fine china, Steuben, and Lalique glassware was a testament to his impeccable taste. He delighted in culinary adventures as well, savoring the flavors of fine foods and wines from around the world. His love for travel took him to the most enchanting destinations where he immersed himself in the local cultures and cuisines, always seeking new experiences and discoveries.

Tim also possessed a love and joy of music, appreciating theater and artistry which enriched his life. His discerning taste and love for beauty extended beyond material possessions however, to the relationships he cherished with family and friends. His infectious enthusiasm, kindness and generous spirit touched all who knew him. He leaves us with a legacy of awe-inspiring tales and a profound appreciation for the beauty of nature. He will be greatly missed by his spouse, James T. Cornish (Jack) of East Norriton, PA, his sister, Gail Levin (Herbert) of Ardmore PA, sister Laura Sterling Markus (Frank) of Germantown, Maryland, brother Lawrence Rexford Sterling (Donna) of Okeechobee, Florida and sister Suzanne Sterling Bowen (David) of Hayward, Wisconsin and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews as well as numerous life-long friends.

Special heartfelt thanks to Mainline Homecare & Hospice for their compassionate and dedicated care. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Parkinson’s Disease Foundation or a charity of your choosing. A gathering to celebrate Tim’s life will be held at a later date to be announced.