C. Gale Sterling, 71, of West Long Branch, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 11^th at Monmouth Medical Center.

She was born in Indiana, PA, and was proud of her western PA roots, returning to visit when she could. Gale lived most of her life in the Shore area. Gale was a graduate of Shore Regional High School, Montclair University and received her Masters of Education from Farleigh Dickinson University. She was a dedicated educator, teaching freshman English for many years at Keansburg High School and she served as the ISS teacher at the middle school. Gale had a true passion for teaching and always strove to encourage her students to reach their full potential,  both academically and personally. She considered her students to be “her kids.”  She has often been described as a legend by her students and colleagues. She was the Softball Coach for many years at Keansburg High School and was a strong voice fighting for the Title IX movement.  In addition, Gale was an active member of the Keansburg Education Association, serving as the President.

Gale loved visiting Columbus Amish Market, where she would arrive at the crack of dawn to be sure she could get the freshly baked donuts before they were gone. Gale was an accomplished collector of a wide range of memorabilia and antiques that were her treasures and brought her great joy.

She enjoyed shopping for fresh vegetables at every farm market she found, along with regular runs to Delicious Orchards. She was an avid reader and a talented writer. She also enjoyed TV shows, trips to Atlantic City and walking the boardwalks of the Jersey Shore. Most of all, Gale found great pleasure simply being home with Lin, her adored dog and friends who stopped by to visit.

Gale will be remembered as a person who loved deeply, was a loyal friend, and who had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. Gale never did anything half-way. She gave her all.

She is predeceased by her parents, Helen and Harold Sterling.

Surviving is her devoted spouse and partner of 32 years, Linda (Lin) Salozzo; brother and sister-in-law, Kyle and Ursel Sterling, Ocean; her niece Christine Sterling, Ocean; her best friend of 50 years, Laurie Needleman, Freehold; as well as her beloved dog, Ricky.

Friends are invited to a visitation with the family, Thursday, Sept. 16^th, from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. Funeral services and burial on the family plot in Woodbine Cemetery will be private. To share a favorite memory of Gale please visit her page of tributes at www.woolleyboglioli.com.