William Reynolds Sutherland Jr., known lovingly as “John” to everyone who knew him, was born January 12, 1944, in Scotland County, North Carolina. He passed away peacefully at his home on May 12, 2026, surrounded by all those who loved him dearly.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Bumgarner Family Funeral Service and Crematorium Chapel, officiated by Pastor James Mims. The family will receive friends from 3:00 – 4:00 PM.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy and, after his service, worked at Toastmaster until his retirement. He lived life with warmth, humor, and heart. He found joy in shagging and beach music, capturing memories through photography, and brightening the days of the many ladies in his life with flowers. Ever frugal and practical, those flowers were often delivered in recycled water bottles, a small gesture that became one of the many things people loved about him. He never met a stranger for long and had a way of making people feel welcomed, cared for, and appreciated.

He is survived by his beloved sweetie of almost 20 years, Nancy Tate; his children, Reynolds Sutherland and wife Jami and Laurin (Peanut) Sutherland. Nancy’s children who became his own through the years, Heidi Cox and husband Russ, Christy Kubis and husband Gregg; his sister and brother-in-law, Irma and Bob Massengill; and his cherished grandchildren: Braxton and Banx Sutherland; Rowen, Lilly, and Marley Rose Cox; and Chase and Conner Kubis.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William Reynolds and Virginia Sutherland. The family would also like to recognize the very special caregivers who became family through their love and devotion: Shelby Clyburn, Patricia Riddle, Theresa Modlin, and Sharon Bethel.

John will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, his love of music and dancing, and the way he always reminded everyone leaving his presence to “Watch your 6.”

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service and Crematorium is assisting the Sutherland family.