Denise R. "Wilcher" Sutton

The joyful, compassionate woman we knew and loved, Denise R. Sutton, was born April 3,1959 in Jackson, Mississippi to Mr. and Mrs. Deacon Louis and Rosie Lee Wilcher, who both preceded her into eternal life. Three children were born to this union, Ouli' Love Drakeford and the late Tommie Louis.

Denise confessed her hope in Christ at an early age and remained a faithful member of the New Tabernacle Baptist Church for many years, under the leadership of Pastor Norman L. Russell, Sr. Committed to service, Denise was a Girl Scouts of America Brownie leader, choir director and president, and actively supported many diverse outreach programs. In 1990, she joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church using her talents and spiritual gifts wherever needed, under the leadership of Reverend Dr. J. Rayford Goodwin I.

Denise Sutton was educated within the private school sector, attending Aquinas Dominican High School in Chicago, Illinois. She later graduated from Robert Morris College, earning B.S. degree in accounting. Her career accomplishments included accounting and managerial positions with prestigious accounting, property, and law firms throughout Chicago. Her legal support for family law / fathers' rights was unheralded, coordinating expert teams at the law firm of Jeffery M. Levings. She was currently enrolled at Moody Bible Institute of Chicago earning a double Master's Degree.

Denise was proud to work alongside many government officials including Congressmen Bobby Rush, Congressman Danny Davis, and former Mayor of Chicago, Richard Daily. Given her cultural interests, she enjoyed managing several historic properties in downtown Chicago, including the Ford Theater.

As a featured author in an award-winning book entitled Women Who Win, Overseer Denise R. Sutton discussed her spiritual battle with cancer, encouraging others along her journey. She is the founder of Inspire, a ministry designed to meet the distinctive needs of Christian women. Her weekly bible study led many people to accept Christ as their personal savior.

Denise Sutton departed this life on January 15, 2026. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband of 36 years, Bishop Willie J. Sutton, Jr. and three beautiful daughters, Aurielle J. Sutton, Amber (Terry) Turner, and Jasmine Sutton. Her sister, Ouli' Love Drakeford, stepmother Erma, brothers Ryan, Tony, and Robert; two adopted daughters, Lynnette Smart and Ciara Jenkins. Eight grandchildren, Darrell, Israel, Kendel, Taelyn, Aryell, Terrion, Angel, and Katelyn. Brother-in-law Darin (Jasmine), Lang, sister-in-law Kim (Carlos), Jenel (Terrence). Nieces Charisse, Debbie, Kim, Sterling, Madison, Island, Victoria, Kasey, Nira. Nephews Terrence Jr., Carlos Jr., Christopher, Lake, Sheldon, and Kaleb. Great nephew, Leonard. Great nieces Maya, Nekia, Alicia. A very special friend Gloria Mason and the Mason family, a host of cousins, friends, and her Living Word Christian Center Church family in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Always remember Denise's favorite saying, as she entered into worship, "Hallelujah is the highest praise!"