Joe Willie Sutherland, Sr.

Joe Willie Sutherland Sr. was born March 15, 1937 to the union of Willie (Bill) Sutherland and Millie Johnson in Doddsvillle, MS at Pedee Plantation in Sunflower County. He graduated from Amanda Elzy High in Greenwood, MS.

Joe was one of ten children born into that union. He met and married Geneva B. Boarders. Years later they reconnected and enjoyed their golden years together. Joe was a faithful member of New Bethel Tabernacle Church, under the leadership of Bishop Cecil Golder for many years.

In Joe’s early years he was a hard-working farmer in the South and later found employment with Clark Equipment in Buchanon, MI, and worked ten years at Allied Industries in South Bend, IN. After retirement, Joe enjoyed working odd jobs and detailing, putting a shine on everything. In his spare time, he liked to fish, fellowship and spend time with family.

He Leaves to Cherish his loving memory; Five beautiful children: Carl (Lucille) Sutherland of Okinawa Japan; Thea Butler of Chicago, IL; Ernestine Taylor, Joe Sutherland (Venetta) and Richard (Cathy) Sutherland all of South Bend, IN. Thirteen Grand Children: Sean (Adriane) Sutherland, Lawanda Richardson, TaMisha Butler, Cleora Taylor, Willie Taylor, Carl Taylor, Saria Jackson, Zion Connor, Bryanna Cane, Alexander D. Sutherland, Richard A. Sutherland. Siblings: Ann Strickland and Eliza Boyd both of South Bend, IN; Sarah Spratt (Issac a.k.a. Coota) of Schlater, MS, Margaret Evans and Rose Baggett all of Eustis, FL and a host of Great Grandchildren, cousins, family and friends. He also had a special bond with special Cousin Carrie Mae Johnson-Jones and James Beadin.

Joe Willie Sutherland Sr. 84, gained his wings on the afternoon of November 22, 2021. He was preceded in death by his Wife Geneva B. Ross, Parents, Siblings: Susie B. Smith, Albert and John Henry Sutherland, Bessie Woods and two grandchildren Titus Davis and Jo’Nita (Darcy) Sutherland-Parrish.

A Celebration of life will take place on Saturday December 4, 2021 at 11AM with a Viewing one-hour prior at New Bethel Tabernacle Church 2627 W. Napier St. South Bend, IN 46619.  

Mr. Sutherland’s final resting place will be next to his wife at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery South Bend, IN. 

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