Samuel Elton Sutton

Samuel Elton Sutton, 84, passed away on July 14, 2016 in Destin, Florida surrounded by his loving wife of 65 years, Janice, and family after a brief battle with cancer. Sam was born at Ft. Bragg, NC and grew up in the Spring Lake, NC community. He graduated from Anderson Creek High School and later joined the USAF serving in Okinawa, Korea, Florida, Alaska, and North Carolina. He received BS and MS degrees from Troy State University. Sam retired as a Safety Investigator from the USAF after 21 years and later from Civil Service at the Hurlburt Field Fire Department as an Assistant Fire Chief/Trainer. Sam and Jan enjoyed traveling throughout the United States in their RV with friends and family with Sam often taking on the role of "wagon master". He loved having the extended family together and took great pleasure in decorating for Christmas. Sam and Jan loved living in Destin and made their home there for 43 years.Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Sudie Sutton, sister, Doris Cameron, and brother, Donald Sutton. Sam is survived by his wife Janice, daughter and son in law, Jan & Dave Robinson; son and daughter in law, Sam III and Bonnie Sutton, grandson, Tony Sutton, great grandson, DJ Harrigan-Sutton; younger sisters in law who were raised by Sam and Jan - Mickie Moody and husband, Harold, and Joan Miller and husband Jeff; and sister, Caroline Tenhet and husband, Cal; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service to honor Sam's life was held on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at 2:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of Destin. A reception was held in the church fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Emerald Coast Hospice, 200 Grand Blvd., #205, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 ; or to the First Presbyterian Church of Destin, 154 Calhoun Dr., Destin, 32541.The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Alec Schmidt, Phyllis, and Alicia; Dr. Mose Hayes; and the caring and compassionate staff of Emerald Coast Hospice.