Doris M. Sutherland

East Lansing, formerly of Hadley

Doris Marie Sutherland, 96, passed away on December 24, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. She was born August 16, 1920 in Hadley, Michigan to Charles and Gladys Sutherland. Doris graduated from Hadley High School in 1938, MSNC (now Eastern Michigan University), the University of Colorado, and Western Michigan. She was a school librarian for 30 years in Grand Haven and Lansing schools. Passionate about politics and conservation, Doris donated 75 acres of farmland to form Sutherland Nature Center outside Hadley. She loved reading newspapers and doing crossword puzzles, and was very fond of her East Lansing neighborhood and her many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Ruth Umpstead, and her brother, Harold Sutherland.

She was be remembered by her siblings, Marjorie Krakker, Ray Sutherland, and Lee (Jean) Sutherland; her sister-in-law, Dorcas Sutherland; and her many nieces and nephews whom she adored and who adored her.

There will be no memorial services at this time. If you wish, remember Doris by planting a tree in her honor.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.greastlansing.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lansing State Journal on Dec. 28, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Doris Sutherland

Sponsored by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes.

11 Entries

Mai nou Xiong

June 17, 2021

I don’t know if this will go anywhere but I met Doris while working in East Lansing, I had saw her walking and it hot so I pulled over to asked if she wanted a ride, being the sweet person she is she said no because she didn’t live too far but I insisted. She came in my car and at that time the seats in my car I had seat covers with butterflies on them. She said “oh I don’t want to sit on these beautiful butterflies” I told her to sit anyway. When we got to her house she showed me her butterflies collection and shared a lot of information about them that I didn’t know. I thought it’s so cool because my sisters and I we like butterflies. From that day on I asked her if she needed help I can help so whenever she calls me if I’m available I pick her up, we would go eat lunch then to her appointments. Sad part was I didn’t even know of her passing, one day after work I decided to give her a call so I can go see her but she didn’t pick up so I thought I should just stop by to see if she’s home. When I got there my heart kinda knew something was wrong as I was walking up to her house I felt uneasy, when I opened the door I saw that her house was empty, I was clueless. I then walked back to my car and one of her neighbors came and told me she passed away Christmas Eve. My heart dropped and as soon as I got in my car I couldn’t help myself or hold back my tears because I couldn’t believe what I just heard, I cried all the way home. I can’t believe it’s been 5 years since you’re gone Doris, I miss you so much my friend and I wished we would have spent more time together. If anyone know anything about where she’s buried PLEASE PLEASE let me know so I can say goodbye to her. Thank you

Chris Leodler

January 16, 2017

I didn't know Doris until her later years but she was still very sharp even then--and passionate about native plants for pollinators, especially butterflies. A tradition for me was to have a conversation with Doris at the Wildflower Association of Michigan Conference at Kellogg Center in early March. She will be missed by many Wild Ones Red Cedar Chapter members!

Lea White

December 31, 2016

I used to stop by to visit Doris all the time when my daughter was an infant/toddler and we lived in her neighborhood. Such a genuine, kind-hearted woman! She will be missed (by her neighbors and butterflies alike)

Roger/Diane Young

December 30, 2016

Dear Doris .......
We Often offered Doris a ride as she was walking back from Foods For Living ......... It was a treat to stop and chat with her, when we were out walking our Chihuahuas ........ We will always remember you, Doris ..... and your Monarch Tank on your porch.

rosalie parmelee

December 29, 2016

I was a student at Foster school in the 40's. She gave me my love of books.

Mike Flores

December 28, 2016

I was a student at Foster School in the mid 1960's and remember you being so helpful to all students including myself.

I enjoyed your leadership in the school, and you inspired me very much. Your influence helped me achieve a MBA later in life.

I remember visiting the Foster School as a senior in H.S. and you still remembered me. Thank your for all your support and encouragement in grade school. You will be missed.

December 28, 2016

Doris used to be my client at my salon for many many years...We would talk about butterflies all the time...And i would always drive her home so she didnt have to walk in the cold..I will miss her so much...

Evelyn Burgess

December 28, 2016

Doris and I worked together at Foster School in the mid-60s. I was a new teacher, she gave me so much confidence in that first year. Our paths crossed once since those years, and we had a wonderful time catching up. She has been in my thoughts many times in the ensuing years. What a wonderfully giving lady. Rest In Peace, Doris.

Beth Colosimo

December 28, 2016

Doris was a very special and remarkable lady. we will miss her in the neighborhood. Beth and Tom Colosimo

Janice/ Brightstar homecare caregiver

December 28, 2016

Sorry for the families loss.....

Janice White

December 28, 2016

Rip Doris.... you were a very sweet lady and I enjoyed helping to provide care to you....

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