May 3, 2025, 87, Goldsboro —
Dorothy Peacock Sutton, 87, was graciously received into the presence of her Lord on Saturday, May 3, 2025. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Dorothy’s life was a testament to faith, love, and devotion to family.
Born in Greene County on January 30, 1938, Dorothy was the daughter of Tryphon Dories Peacock and Betty Cannon Peacock. She grew up in a close-knit family and was preceded in death by her cherished husband, William Franklin Sutton, Sr.; her parents; her siblings—Richard D. Peacock, Joseph I. Peacock, Bobby G. Peacock, and David E. Peacock—and her sister, Bettie Peacock Smith. Though her earthly journey has ended, she now rejoices in eternal reunion with those who went before her.
A devoted follower of Christ, she lived her life as a reflection of His love — full of grace, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
She was known for her boundless love of family and the joy she found in the simple, meaningful things in life: sewing, crafting beautiful jewelry, and sharing her gift of music through singing with the Sutton Family Singers. Even after the family group retired, she continued singing in church, lifting her voice in worship and praise — a blessing to all who heard her. We will forever cherish the treasured tape recordings of those family singing days, each note a reminder of her joyful spirit and love of the Lord.
These passions were never just hobbies — they were gifts she shared generously with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, weaving memories that will endure for generations.
Her love for her family knew no bounds. If you ever told her you loved her, you’d be met with her signature reply: “Not nearly as much as I love you.” She was our greatest encourager, our biggest supporter, and a living example of forgiveness — never holding a grudge and always extending the grace of Christ to others.
She left us not only a legacy of faith and love, but countless treasures in the form of handwritten notes, stories tucked into photo albums, and messages on cards and heirlooms — each one a piece of her heart and a memory to cherish.
She loved her precious PeeWee deeply, and often reminded us, “I’ll see him again someday.” Today, though our hearts ache immensely with her absence, we rejoice knowing that reunion has come. She is kneeling at the feet of Jesus and finally reunited with the love of her life.
Her love shaped our lives. Her faith continues to guide us, and her memory will live on in each of us.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the providers and staff at UNC Health Wayne, who showed nothing but care and compassion for our grandmother — and for our entire family — from start to finish. Whether it was a box of tissues, the comfort cart prepared with water, coffee, snacks, or a hug from a CNA, RN, or provider, we felt truly cared for during this very difficult time.
A special thank-you to Dr. Giraurd for going above and beyond in caring for our sweet grandmother — you are truly a gem and Wayne County is so blessed to have you.
We are also deeply grateful to Howard Whitfield, COO, who made many visits and phone calls during Grandma’s stay. Howard showed a level of compassion that truly means the world to us, and we will never forget hearing that he gently wiped her mouth and face when she arrived at the ED. Howard, your kindness will be forever remembered and appreciated.
Her daughter, Frankie, who worked at Wayne for 16 years, is especially grateful to see that same spirit of compassion and dedication alive and well in the staff and providers today.
Dorothy worked for many years as a talented seamstress at Belk in Goldsboro. Her skills were admired by many, and her handiwork left a lasting impression on those she served.
She is survived by her devoted daughter, Frankie D. Smeltzer and husband, Rev. Ray D. Smeltzer, Jr. of Goldsboro; and her loving son, William Franklin Sutton, Jr. and wife, Carol of Mount Juliet, TN. She leaves behind her adored grandchildren: Glena Lewis and husband, Spencer; David Smeltzer and wife, Ashley; Diana Pate and husband, William Branham Pate; Landon Sutton and wife, Layla; Chance Sutton; and Logan Sutton and wife, Kristen. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Isabella Lewis, Emma Lewis, Spence Lewis, Micah Smeltzer, and Barrett Sutton. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law as well as her nieces and nephews that she loved very much.
The family would like to express our sincere appreciation to her sister, Carolyn Perry, and sister-in-law, Emmy Lou Peacock, whose consistent presence brought her comfort and companionship, especially during her time at Woodard’s and Willow Creek Nursing Home
The family will receive friends at Seymour Funeral Home from 2:00 – 3:00 pm on Thursday, May 8, 2025 followed by a service to celebrate Dorothy’s life at 3:00 pm in the chapel, with her son-in-law, Rev. Ray Smeltzer, officiating. Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
