Veronica Grier Sutson

Veronica Grier Sutson, affectionately known as Ronnie was born on January 21, 1959, in Washington, DC to Mary Ellen Winestock Grier and the late Harold Grier, Sr. After a lengthy illness, Ronnie went to be with the Lord on June 24, 2024. She is preceded in death by her brother Harold "Juney" Grier, Jr.



Ronnie was educated in the Washington, DC and Prince George's County, Maryland public school systems. During her high school years, Ronnie was among the many students impacted by the practice of busing students outside of their local school communities as a means of rectifying racial segregation. As a result, she attended Bladensburg High School where despite the challenges Black students faced with the mandatory busing policies, Ronnie excelled in her classes and graduated in 1977.



Ronnie embraced Christ at an early age. She was baptized and spiritually nurtured at Beulah Baptist Church of Deanwood Heights in Northeast Washington under the leadership of Pastor Moses L. Jackson. Later, in her walk with Christ she became a member of Reid Temple and in later years attended First Baptist Church of Glenarden until her health prevented her from attending in-person services. During Ronnie's illness, her unwavering faith and strength in the Lord sustained her throughout, and she continually gave God the glory.



Ronnie had an extensive and fulfilling career with the federal government. She worked for the Department of Labor until her retirement in 2022. She enjoyed her job and made several lifelong friends while employed there. Before joining the Department of Labor, Ronnie worked for the Chesapeake and Potomac telephone company.



Ronnie was known by family and friends for being a fashionable, stylish and classy dresser; a true fashionista! Those who knew her well also knew that an outfit was not complete until she had the head-to-toe accessories to complete the look. In addition to her love of fashion, Ronnie had a green thumb and enjoyed showcasing her pristinely manicured lawn. Ronnie loved attending live music events and concerts including indoor and outdoor old school and gospel music festivals. She liked traveling, cruising, and spending time enjoying island life in the Caribbean. Spending time at the beach or by the ocean were among her favorite pastimes. In recent years, Ronnie, along with her family, began to visit North Beach regularly. There, she found joy in long leisurely walks along the beach or simply sitting and savoring the view and solitude.



Ronnie cherished spending time with her family, especially her three sons and grandchildren. She enjoyed their visits to her home, her trips to their homes and family outings. Ronnie planned sleepovers with her grand-daughter, Kanihya so that they could have some fun "girl time" together. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she always made sure to have all their favorite foods, snacks, and toys whenever they came to visit.



Ronnie easily connected with people wherever she went. Her down-to-earth personality attracted others to her. Ronnie was incredibly generous and always ready to help those in need. Her generosity, combined with her undeniable beauty, charm, and wit, made her a remarkable person. During the holidays, she would often spend time volunteering by serving meals to individuals and families. Ronnie's compassionate personality, quirky sense of humor, and loving nature will be missed.



Ronnie leaves the gift of love and lasting memories to her sons; Wayne Grier, Reginald Byrd, Jr. and Rondell Byrd; 9 grandchildren, Daquan, Kanihya, Sy'ier, Destyn, Zanr, Rondell, Royall, Romello and Arjamonie; 4 great grandchildren, Dyon, Donye, Aman and Azaria; mother, Mary Grier; 3 sisters, Sheilah Grier Myers (Chuck), Pamala Grier Briscoe (Kenny), and Robin Grier Johnson; aunt, Gladys Winestock; special cousin, Glen Winestock and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Arrangements to honor Ronnie's life and legacy are being prepared. Further details will be shared with family and friends in due course