James Wilson Sutton

James Wilson Sutton, departed this life at home surrounded by his family on, September 23, 2020

He was born June 6, 1936, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina to Riley J. Sutton and Marie Sharpe- Sutton who preceded him in death. James was also preceded in death by his 1st wife, Millie L. Brown-Sutton and 2nd Wife Pastor Alease Sutton and daughter Sandra A. Jones.

James served in the Army stationed in Jacksonville NC he received an honorable discharge after 2 years he then moved to Kansas City, Mo where he met and married Millie who was a widow with 5 children in which he helped raise as his own. Later in his life he met and married Alease who also had a son who he considered his own as well. This truly speaks to a man’s character and strength to love children that are not his biological children. James also has a biological son, Tyler James Parris Sutton with his lifelong friend Dawn Parris.

James accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of 3 churches in his life time, Second Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Chapelle where he served as Deacon, usher and leader of the men’s ministries, Sunrise Christian Assembly Church under the leadership of his wife Pastor Alease Sutton where he was a Deacon and Trustee and an honorary member of Concord Fortress of Hope Church under the leadership of Pastor Ronald Lindsey.

James worked in the maintenance field in the Kansas City school district for many years.  When he retired, he worked as security guard in his retirement community in Independence, Mo. for 20 years. Friends of his retirement community spoke very highly of him; he was always available to assist his neighbors and was known for bringing coffee and snacks to their events. James was fondly called Sonny or Wilson depending on which side of the family, he was loved by many.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: Daughter Irene Kendrick; son in law William Kendrick of the home, sons Tyler Paris Sutton, James W. Brown (Shirley), Abdul Wadul, Anthony(Tony) Williams, two sisters: Gloria O. Sutton and Shirley Sutton-Carter (James), two brothers: Cleveland A. Sutton and Herbert L. Sutton,11 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews and special friends.