Marvin Gray Sutherland

"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me." ~ Isaiah 6:8

Marvin Gray Sutherland, age 96 of Kingsport, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.  Marvin was born on September 7, 1928, in South Clinchfield, Va to Otis and Hester Chafin Sutherland.  Marvin attended school in Clinchfield, VA and Cleveland, VA.  Marvin and his family moved to Kingsport, TN, to the Highland Community, on January 8, 1943.   

Marvin served in the Army National Guard, and he was federalized in 1950 in the United States Army.  He served in the 2278th Regimental Combat Team.  He was stationed at Camp Devan, MA and Camp Drum, NY. 

Marvin was a hard worker throughout his life.  He began working at Leeper’s Food Store at age 14; where he worked for 40 years.  Throughout his life, he owned and operated a service station in Highland Park and the Bloomingdale Community.  From there, he began working with Rental Uniform, which became G & K Services, and after several years he retired in 2005. 

Marvin was a man of integrity.  He was a loving husband and father, and he attended Mercy Seat Ministries.  He stood solid on his belief in God, and he never waivered from his faith.  When you would see Marvin, he always had a smile on his face and whistling his favorite songs.  With him gone, there will always be a void in the hearts of his family.   

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 42 years, Patsy Sutherland; two sons, Patrick Sutherland, and Harold Sutherland; and his 10 siblings.  Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Michael Sutherland and wife, Shelby; daughter, Tammy Simpson and husband, Mark; his granddaughter, who was the center of Marvin's heart, Brandi Blackard and husband, Clifton; seven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; many loving nieces, nephews, and family members. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Mercy Seat Ministries, located at 2315 E. Center Street, Kingsport, TN 37664, 423-398-5045. 

There will be a military honors graveside service on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 2:00 pm at East Lawn Memorial Park with Rev. Greg Velie officiating.  Special music will be provided by Heather Wentz.  Marvin’s family and friends will be serving as pallbearers.  Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 3/265.  Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery at 1:50 pm. 

Carter-Trent Funeral Home Kingsport is serving the Sutherland family.