Christine Sterling

Funeral services for Mrs. Christine Sterling will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at New Chapel United Pentecostal Church in Collins, with the Reverend Ken Hickman officiating. Mrs. Sterling, age 103, entered into the eternal rest of her Lord Saturday evening, November 8, 2025, at her home in Collins, surrounded by her family. Saulters Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, November 11, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at New Chapel United Pentecostal Church. Visitation will resume on Wednesday at 12:00 noon until the hour of the service. Visitation will resume on Wednesday at Noon until the hour of service at 2:00 p.m.

A nation just recovering from World War I, the year 1922 brought about the invention of a thrilling new sport - water skiing. Warren Harding was president, and increased automobile ownership necessitated the invention of traffic lights. And, in the sleepy, rural Mississippi county of Jefferson Davis, Dewey and Eunice Ward Dixon welcomed their long-awaited baby girl, Sarah Christine.

Christine's life underwent a transformative change in 1949 when she embraced the Gospel Message of Acts 2:38. Her commitment to this message of Truth was profound; she was baptized in Jesus' name for the remission of her sins and received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Her family fondly recalls her unwavering dedication to her Lord and remarks that from the first day of her rebirth, she was “all in,” serving faithfully at the New Chapel United Pentecostal Church for many years. This spiritual journey defined her life, and only eternity will reveal the many she impacted.

Growing up as the daughter of poor tenant farmers in South Mississippi, Christine understood the value of hard work from a young age. In an era marked by the challenges of rural life, she learned the importance of perseverance and community, sharing the labor alongside her family to forge a living amidst the difficulties of the time.

Described affectionately by those who knew her as fearless, Christine’s zest for life remained unbroken even in her later years. In her late 90s, she was still tackling whatever needed to be done, including cutting limbs from trees in her yard, and working in her garden. Additionally, she enjoyed hunting and fishing through the years. An avid traveler, Christine also loved riding the Amtrak train with her family, making memories that will be cherished forever.

A wonderful cook, Christine’s homemade biscuits, tarts, and old-fashioned hand-cranked ice cream were not just meals, but expressions of her love and care, crafting a loving atmosphere for family gatherings and celebrations.

Throughout her career, Christine worked tirelessly as the housekeeping supervisor for the local hospital, as well as other vocations. She also worked alongside her late husband, Bennett, after a long day at her public job. Whether driving a tractor, tending to cows, or plowing behind a team in the fields, she embodied a strong work ethic, balancing both home and work with grace.

As we celebrate Sister Christine Sterling’s life, we remember a woman who lived with purpose, faith, and commitment. Her steadfast spirit and devotion to family, community, and her Lord will be felt for generations to come, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bennett Sterling; her son, Billy Sterling; and 2 grandsons, Charles Mitchell and Randall B. Mitchell.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her daughter, Nell Mitchell of Collins; her grandchildren, Darrell Mitchell (Diana), John Scott Mitchell (Shirley B.), Rex Shannon Mitchell, Shane Sterling, Carlos Sterling, and Neal Sterling. She also leaves behind a rich legacy to 5 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren, an expected great-great grandchild, and 3 great-great-great grandchildren.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.