Birth date: Feb 7, 1965 Death date: Oct 22, 2025
Jill was born Feb 7th,1965 to Richard and Audrey Sterner who had met in musical theater. Richard had been a tenor in the Detroit Metropolitan opera. Jill performed in a lot of her father‘s plays as a young child and teenager play Read Obituary
The family has chosen to send donations to American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.
I joined Jill's wedding band in the summer of 1990, at the tender age of 19. I was substantially younger than the rest of the group. Aside from my ability to actually play the music, I probably wasn't really ready or mature enough to be in such a professional group. But the band, and Jill in particular, looked out for me and brought me up to speed. She had the most beautiful voice that would light up the room every time. It was hard not to feel energized by her positivity and good humor even off the bandstand. My parents absolutely adored Jill's singing talents, and we ended up playing their 25th wedding anniversary party in that group's last gig together. A couple years later, Jill drafted me into her next musical group, and I spent another four years happily playing alongside her. Sadly, after she married and relocated to California, we lost touch. The last time I saw her was at her wedding.
I don't know what made me think to look Jill up this morning, but I am so sad to learn that she passed away not even two months ago. I will always be grateful for her contributions to my young musical life. RIP Jill, and my deepest condolences to all of her friends and family.
Brad Pitman, saxophonist in The Core (1990-1994) and Black Tie Affair (1996-2000)
I would say I'm lucky to have met Jill. The link between us was my friend Debi Abruzzo who did her hair at my home studio. I met her briefly before she was diagnosed with cancer. I prayed hard for her recovery and was so happy and grateful she made it through. Her beautiful positive bright demeanor and attitude was magnetizing. Whenever I knew she was there I would try to pop in to say hello and visit for a few minutes. We also discovered that her and John knew my partner years ago through golf and had been neighbors.
She was just a breath of fresh air and so grateful for the life she had, that you just wanted to be around her to see her smile. I will miss her.
I was deeply saddened to hear about Jill’s passing. Even though it’s been many years since we last saw each other, I still remember her warmth, laughter, and the incredible positivity she brought to everyone around her. She had a way of brightening any room she entered and made work feel lighter just by being herself. It was a privilege to have known her and worked alongside her. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to be touched by her wonderful spirit.
- Benny Olivares.
3 trees were planted in memory of Jill Marie Rooks
Jills love for others was Godly. She changed every life she touched, for the better. May we all be more like Jill.
3 trees were planted in memory of Jill Marie Rooks
