Mary Margaret Nuzum Sterling

Mary Margaret Nuzum Sterling, age 76, passed away in her home on May 17, 2026, in Paris, Kentucky. She was born on March 17, 1950, in Wilmington, Delaware, and lived a life marked by kindness, intelligence, and thoughtfulness.
Mary was the beloved wife of Wayne Sherwood Sterling and the devoted mother of one son, John Sterling. She is also survived by her sister, Linda Nuzum; her brother, Rick Nuzum; her niece and nephews, Lane Simmons, Trey Simmons, Steve Nuzum, and Tom Nuzum. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elizabeth Hall Nuzum.
Mary was raised in Aiken, South Carolina, where her love of horses began in a community known for its strong equestrian tradition. That early connection to horses remained a defining part of her life. She graduated from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, with a degree in psychology, and she carried throughout her life the curiosity, discipline, and care that reflected both her education and her character.
Her working life included service as a bookkeeper for Keller’s Farm Store and Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital in Paris, Kentucky, among others, as well as assisting at Best Friends Obedience School in Versailles, Kentucky. In each of these roles, she was known for her reliability, attention to detail, and steady presence. She approached her work with quiet dedication and a sincere respect for the people and animals around her.
Mary’s love of horses was more than a pastime. She rode and showed horses in 3-day events and was a member of the Bluegrass Riding Club. She also served as point keeper for the MSEDA, the Mid-South Eventing and Dressage Association, a role that reflected both her commitment to the sport and her willingness to support others in the equestrian community. She especially enjoyed volunteering at horse shows, including the Rolex 3-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park, where her help and enthusiasm were deeply appreciated.
Outside of her many equestrian interests, Mary was an avid reader who found joy in books and the worlds they opened. Her love of learning and her thoughtful nature were evident in all that she did. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her intelligence, and the warmth she brought to her family, friends, and community.
Mary Margaret Nuzum Sterling leaves behind a legacy of devotion, grace, and steadfast kindness. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be conducted 2:00 PM Sunday May 24, 2026, by David Thacker at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY by Chaplain Trent Keeton.
Visitation will be from 1:00 PM Sunday May 24, 2026, until the hour of service at the funeral home.
Memorials may take the form of contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2808 Palumbo Dr. #205, Lexington, KY 40509.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main Street, Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and on our Facebook page.