Fr. Thomas J. Sutherland passed from this life on August 17, 2026, at the age of 91.
Fr. Sutherland was born on June 12, 1935, in Detroit, and ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Detroit on Dec. 18, 1960.
Fr. Sutherland served as pastor of St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Shelby Township (1991-2005); Most Holy Trinity Parish, Detroit (1989-91); St. Matthias Parish, Sterling Heights (1981-89); and St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, Detroit (1972-81). He served as administrator of St. Lawrence Parish, Utica (2014); St. Sylvester Parish, Warren (2011-18); St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Shelby Township (2010-11); St. Dunstan Parish, Garden City (2007-08); and St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, Detroit (1970-72). He also served as vicar for former North Macomb Vicariate (1991-94); The former Hub Vicariate (1990-91); and former West Detroit Vicariate (1970-73), and as parochial vicar of St. Christopher Parish, Detroit (1965-70), and Sacred Heart Parish, Dearborn (1961-65). Fr. Sutherland received senior status on July 1, 2005.
Fr. Sutherland is predeceased by his parents Ariel and Helen (Holmes) Sutherland and his siblings, Mary Lois Sutherland, Sr. Kathleen Sutherland, OP, Marilyn (the late Paul) Rizzo, John Joseph Sutherland, and Marion (Harry) Faris. He is survived by his siblings, Mary (the late Doug) Hosefeld, Margaret (the late Charles) Missig, F. Patrick (Joan) Sutherland, Judy Sutherland, and Daniel (Frances) Sutherland.
Condolences may be sent to Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors (8459 Hall Road, Utica, MI 48317).
Fr. Sutherland will lie in state on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church (48115 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Township, MI 48315) from 8 a.m. until the time of his funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
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