December 16, 2025, 86, La Grange – Shirley Ann Holland Sutton, 86, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. During the last 12 days of her life, she was surrounded by her three sons. They made sure one of them was by her side 24 hours a day. She passed with peace in her heart knowing her wishes for her final days were being honored by her sons. Shirley was born in Johnston County to the late Norman Joseph and Isabelle Matthews Holland on December 21, 1938. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Billy Sutton; a great-granddaughter, Paige Elizabeth Sutton; brothers-in-law, Harold Sutton and Phil Sutton; and sisters-in-law, Faye Sutton and Dot Sutton.
Shirley spent many years working with Southern Bank in La Grange, where her steady presence and warm spirit were appreciated by coworkers and customers alike. Her faith was an important aspect of her life. She was a devoted, long-time member of Bethel Fellowship Church, remaining actively involved for as long as her health allowed.
An avid reader, Shirley especially enjoyed romance novels. As someone who was always set on go, she looked forward to each adventure, whether it was a planned trip or a spontaneous journey. She especially enjoyed taking her grandchildren on many trips to Myrtle Beach and Miami Beach.
With a quiet nature, Shirley possessed a deep wisdom and a generous heart. She loved unconditionally, never spoke ill of others, and carried herself with a consistently sweet and gentle demeanor that brought comfort to those around her.
Above all, Shirley’s greatest joy and deepest love was her family. Her life was centered around her husband and their boys, nurturing them with patience, devotion, and a love that never wavered.
A service of love and remembrance will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Stan Matthews officiating. The family will receive friends in the hour prior to service. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange.
Shirley is survived by her sons, Roger Sutton (Terri), Woody Sutton (Dee), and Randy Sutton (Steve); grandchildren, Bryan Sutton (Stephanie), Mitchell Sutton (Michael), Amanda Fahy (David), Blake Sutton (Katherine), Abbey Sutton (Courtney), Madison Sutton, and Faith Hampton (Bobby); great-grandchildren, Kent, Olivia, Trevor, Mason, Austin, Eli, Maddox, Sutton, Luke, Amani, and Alex; and her sister, Hope Houston (Glenn).
The family would like to extend their gratitude to those who cared for Shirley in her later years: Cindy Adams, Phyllis Anderson, Carlee Nettles, and Cassy Smith.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions can be made in Shirley’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
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