Sterling E. Tom was born June 3, 1955, to Miyoko and Edward Tom and passed away on February 12, 2026 surrounded by his family.
Sterling was raised in Los Angeles, Calif. and graduated from Loyola High School in 1973. At just 18 years old, he began a distinguished 27-year career with UPS, rising to operations manager. In 1985, Sterling married Chris and together they raised three sons: Sterling Jr., Cameron, and Cody, eventually relocating to Las Vegas in 2001. Being a father was Sterling’s greatest joy. He devoted his time supporting their sports endeavors and worked tirelessly to ensure all three boys graduated with a degree, opening up opportunities he never had. Sterling took extreme pride seeing his sons become successful in their careers and apply his similar work ethic.
A true Angeleno at heart, Sterling was a devoted L.A. foodie, detouring to Johnny’s and the Hat for pastrami or El Tepeyac for a Hollenbeck burrito during his frequent trips back. He had a passion for classic cars, particularly his beloved Chevelle and El Camino, which he meticulously washed and maintained with genuine pride. On weekends, you’d find him at the bowling alley or at home cooking up feasts for family and friends.
As an empty nester, Sterling finally had the opportunity to travel at length. He spent quality time with Chris exploring Europe and Asia, frequently visited his family in Hawaii, and made sure his grandkids in Sacramento and Reno knew who would spoil them.
He is survived by his wife Chris; his sons, Sterling and wife Erin, Cameron and wife Morgan, and Cody; and his grandchildren, Addison, Brooklyn, Taylor, and Rowan, as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly. His memory will live on in every lesson he taught, every game he attended, every meal he made, and every life he touched with his kindness. Funeral service Saturday, March 21, 2026 11:00 a.m. at Saint Francis Xavier Chapel Japanese Catholic Center Little Tokyo, 222 South Hewitt Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
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