Evelyn Sutton

Evelyn Weatherford Sutton died on June 11, 2013 in Salem, just six days short of her 98th birthday. She was born in a farmhouse on Shutler Flat, Gilliam County, Oregon to an Oregon pioneer family. After growing up in California, she met the love of her life, Robert H. Sutton, while attending Pasadena College. Bob was a minister in the Church of the Nazarene, as was her father, Fred. Evelyn and Bob pastored in several churches in California and Oregon. An inseparable team, they jointly ministered to their flocks. Bob preceded her in death by five months.

A leader in the church, she served as the President of the Missionary Society. As president she traveled to Cambodia and Venezuela to assist in missionary efforts there. Quite the prolific writer, she wrote a book with advice for teenage girls, and penned weekly articles for the church newsletter until she was 97. Because of her public speaking talents, she was regularly invited to speak at many churches and conventions. In December 2012, she received the Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor paid to any member of the Church of the Nazarene. Her works have and will continue to inspire others.

Evelyn leaves behind a son, Robert Kent, a daughter-in-law, Harriet Davidson, and a grandson, Lee David Sutton, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Her life touched many people, who will miss her dearly.

Burial will be at the Arlington, Oregon (city) Cemetery on Saturday, June 15 at 3:00 PM. Memorial Service will take place at the First Church of the Nazarene, Salem, Oregon on Sunday, June 16 at 2:00 PM. Arrangements by Howell-Edwards-Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors.