James and Barbara Sutton

James and Barbara Sutton

James Sutton, age 93, passed away on February 14, 2024, in Florida, and his devoted wife, Barbara Sutton, age 92, passed away on September 21, 2025, in Illinois. Together, James and Barbara shared nearly seven decades of love, adventure, and unwavering commitment, leaving behind a legacy of passion for life, family, and service to others.

James Sutton was born on July 4, 1930, in Lela, OK, to the late James Edger II

Clara Bell (nee Fletcher) Sutton. His mother was a proud Rosie the Riveter during WWII, which instilled in James a sense of duty and resilience from an early age. His path would soon cross with Barbara's in a story as serendipitous as it was enduring. At the age of 19, James was introduced to 16-year-old Barbara by their mothers, who had worked together during the war. The young couple's first meeting was a simple one--James was tasked with escorting Barbara and her friends to the local malt shop during lunch--but this moment would spark a love that would last a lifetime.

James went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Air Force, during the Korean War as a Special Missions Fighter Pilot - where he flew Sabre Jets and later the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. While serving, he demonstrated courage, dedication, and honor. James was discharged with the rank of First Lieutenant, and throughout his service, he wrote to Barbara every day, ensuring their connection remained unbroken by distance. Upon his return, they were engaged, and on November 20, 1954, in Michigan, they were married. Their bond was unshakable, and it set the foundation for a beautiful life together.

James embarked on a long career as a pilot for United Airlines, where he became a fixture at the Chicago Hub. He loved the sky and the adventures that came with it--especially his passion for flying. His adventurous spirit extended beyond the cockpit; he was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in the wilderness, particularly while salmon fishing in Alaska, an activity he cherished greatly.

Barbara Sutton was born on March 4, 1933, in Lexington, KY, to the late Omar J. and Nancy Mabel (nee Clifford) Furnish. From an early age, she showed a love for the beauty of the world around her. Raised by a mother who also worked during WWII as a Rosie the Riveter, Barbara was no stranger to resilience and strength. Barbara attended the Moody Bible Institute before transferring to Trinity College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. An extraordinary oil painter, mostly self-taught, she captured the world’s beauty through her art. Her talent was not only reflected in her painting but in the way she made their house a home--welcoming, warm, and ever-inviting. She enjoyed decorating, redecorating, and creating a space that felt like a sanctuary for family and friends.

Barbara's love for history, particularly Shakespeare and British history, was a lifelong passion. She was an avid reader who constantly sought to learn and understand the world. She also worked briefly with the Salvation Army, where she provided assistance to impoverished families--a reflection of her deep empathy and commitment to helping others.

After their marriage, James and Barbara began their family in Michigan, later relocating to Chicago for James's career with United Airlines. Together, they built a life rich with love, laughter, and shared adventures. They then spent over 30 years in the peaceful surroundings in their cherished home on Marco Island, Florida. Their union was one of deep mutual respect, and they celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary before James's passing. Their bond was a testament to their unwavering devotion to each other.

James and Barbara Sutton were the loves of each other's lives. Their marriage, rooted in a shared sense of adventure, compassion, and a love of history and the arts, was truly an extraordinary partnership. When James passed away, it marked the end of an era--a period that had spanned a lifetime of love, family, and shared dreams.

James and Barbara's legacy will live on through the love they shared, the lives they touched, and the countless memories they created. They will forever be missed, but their love will remain a guiding light for all who knew them.

They are survived by their daughters, Elizabeth (Patrick H. Pelczynski), Pamela and Suzanne Sutton; grandchildren, Joyelizabeth, Lucy Mae, Mabel Jane, Patrick and Gerhardt Sutton-Pelczynski, Emily Sutton, Brandon and Rachel Weiss; and James's sister, Billie.

James was preceded in death by his parents; and by his sister, Dee, and by his brother, Paul.

In addition to her husband, Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Jarvis Furnish.

A Celebration of James and Barbara's lives will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM with visitation beginning at 9 AM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 149 W. Main St. (Lake Cook Rd.), Barrington, IL 60010. Interment to follow at 1 PM to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood. Please meet at the cemetery entrance.

For information, please contact Davenport Family Funeral Home, Barrington, 847-381-3411. For online condolences please visit, www.davenportfamily.com.