Sterling Shockley Obituary

Sterling Norman "Shock" Shockley, 83, of Gore, VA, died May 1, 2025 at Winchester Medical Center.
Sterling was born July 7, 1941 in Leesburg, VA; son of the late James Miles and Lucie Mae Downs Shockley.
A lifelong resident of Frederick County, he graduated from James Wood High School in 1960 where he excelled in sports and in 2012 was inducted into the JWHS Athletic Hall of Fame. Shortly after high school he began his career in construction with the Virginia Department of Transportation, where he took early retirement in 1991 after 29 years of service. He continued his work with L F Frankin & Sons and finally retired after several more years with W-L Construction.
He became an Auctioneer and enjoyed calling farm sales and auctions for local yard parties and school functions. He, along with a mentor, became a farrier and stayed very busy "shoeing" horses for many folks in Frederick County and surrounding areas. He was a farmer, horseman and cattleman. He spent many nights hunting racoons with his friends and trusted dog Eagle. He enjoyed attending his grandkid's sporting events and giving pointers now and then. He was a member of the Blue Ridge Twirlers, Opequon Saddle Club and Round Hill Ruritan. Sterling will be missed by many.
He is survived by his children, Leigh Ann Artrip (Frank) of Winchester, Penny Diane Kirk (Chris) of Paris, VA, and Sterling "J. R." Shockley, Jr. of Winchester and three grandchildren Will and Lee Artrip, and Brook Kirk. Companion Shirley Purtlebaugh, her daughter Melissa Spielman and her son Tyler McDonald.
Sterling was preceded in death by his brother, James Miles Shockley, Jr. and sisters, Margaret Thompson, Mae Dailey and Audrey Lee Lemon.
Friends may call Friday, May 23rd from 11:00 – 6:00pm at Jones Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 pm. Burial will be private in Mt Zion Cemetery of Aldie.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in honor of Sterling to your charity of choice.