Gail Christine Verhaegen Sterling

Gail Verhaegen Sterling, age 77 of Gulfport, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

She was preceded in death by parents, William Verhaegen and Christine Matheson Verhaegen; her husband, Cornelius “C.W” Sterling; her siblings, Dorothy Osborn, Florence Verhaegen, Charles Verhaegen and Catherine Verhaegen.

Gail is survived by her children, Karen Fithian and Brian (Rebecca) Fithian; her grandchildren, Allie Fithian, Michael (Becca) Fithian, Blake Fithian and Cynthia Eubanks; her great grandchildren, Jackson Fithian, Aiden Ware, Carter Eubanks and Landon Beasley; her nieces, Hillary (Eric) Malecki, Amy (Deneen Washington) Osborn and Cynthia (Paul) Shellman; her nephew, Tim Verhaegen; and her favorite great nieces and nephews.

Gail was born in Southampton, New York, and attended Easthampton High School. In 1965, she married William “Bill” Fithian, and together they welcomed two children while living in New York. In 1971, the family relocated to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, where Gail would make her home for the rest of her life.

In 2000, Gail married Cornelius “C.W.” Sterling, sharing five loving years together until his passing in 2005.

Gail dedicated 47 years of service to Waffle House, retiring from the Gulfport location. She cherished her work family and formed lasting friendships with coworkers and loyal regulars alike.

Family was at the heart of Gail’s life. She especially treasured Thursday night family dinners, a tradition that brought everyone together. She also loved spending time with friends, especially Susanne “Suzi” Bentz who was her best friend for over 50 years. Gail was known as the unofficial photographer of the group, often gathering everyone to capture special moments that would become lifelong memories. She had a lifelong love of her hometown in Montauk, NY, and made an effort every year to visit.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, with visitation beginning in the funeral home chapel at 1:00 pm. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi, MS, 39531.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .