Edward Sterling Maher

Edward Sterling Maher, 86, of Santa Barbara, California, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 16, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Warren Sterling Maher and Catherine Maher (McNellis), Ed proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1964. He was stationed in Hamburg, Germany, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant serving as a Radio Technician. Following his discharge, Ed returned briefly to Chicago before relocating to Santa Maria, California in 1965 to join his sisters, where he met the love of his life. On April 2, 1968, Ed married Olivia (Libbie) Ziegler, honeymooning in San Francisco and beginning a lifelong tradition of joyful travel together. Using the GI Bill, Ed earned a Bachelor of Arts in Central American History from UC Santa Barbara, then enjoyed a dedicated 30+ year career as a telecommunications technician for General Telephone & Electronics (GT&E) and later Verizon Communications. Ed’s life was filled with treasured memories including family trips to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, Hawaii, and Palm Springs. He was a devoted parishioner of Saint Raphael Catholic Church in Goleta, where his faith provided great strength and comfort. Known for his incredible wit, charm, and unforgettable voice, Ed was the life of every gathering. Family and friends fondly remember him as the “fun uncle,” whose arrival always signaled the celebration had truly begun. His passion for movies, trivia, and sports was legendary, as was his support for his beloved Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers. Ed particularly loved Western films and anything featuring Humphrey Bogart or John Wayne. Though he playfully pretended reluctance with every new pet, Ed always became their devoted caretaker. He supported causes dear to his heart, including The Boys Ranch, the National Wildlife Foundation, and the Democratic Party. He exemplified kindness, empathy, and resilience, maintaining positivity despite health challenges. One of his favorite sayings was “I think our job here is done.” Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Olivia (Libbie) Maher; his son, Clifton (Cliff) Sterling Maher, and daughter-in-law Erin Maher (Reed) of Ladera Ranch, California; and his cherished grandchildren, Christopher (8) and Olivia (5). He was preceded in death by his sisters Mary Reeves, Elizabeth Maher, and Catherine Morris. A simple graveside service will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Goleta Cemetery. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate care teams at Cottage Hospital and Divine Care for the Elderly. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s memory to The Boys Ranch or the National Wildlife Foundation.

Edward Sterling Maher

November 16, 1938 - July 29, 2025