Robert Sartin Sutton, 90, of Davidson, NC, passed away on December 5, 2022. He was born on July 31, 1932, and grew up in Lexington, NC.
Bob graduated from Davidson College with a Bachelor of Science in history. After serving as a jet pilot in the United States Air Force, he completed postgraduate work in business and accounting at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned his CPA license. Bob joined Peat, Marwick, Mitchell, & Co (now KPMG) in Charlotte, NC and was soon promoted to managing partner and tapped to open the Norfolk, VA office which continues to thrive today.
Bob was active in the community, providing leadership and support to both industry and the arts. He served as chairman of the board of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, where he was instrumental in uniting five separate chamber organizations. He served as President of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. After retiring from Peat Marwick in 1986, he returned to Davidson College, his Alma Mater, and served as Vice President for Business and Finance. During this time, Bob was involved in developing The McConnell residential neighborhood. In addition, he served on the board of the senior residential community, The Pines, and was a member of the Davidson College Presbyterian Church.
Bob spent his leisure time sailing, traveling abroad, and reading. After he retired in 1995 from Davidson College, he enjoyed playing golf with his wife Alice on the Harbor Town Golf Course where they resided. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed getting together with college friends.
Robert Sutton was preceded in death by his parents Euel Sutton and Clarice Sartin Sutton, his former wife Sally Wagner Sutton-Tucker, his sister Jerrell Ann Gibson, and stepson Scott Smith. He is survived by his wife Alice (Burchett Smith) of 27 years, daughter Amy Peters (Steve), son Rob Sutton (Stephanie), stepdaughter Leigh Ann Lemons (Richard), and grandchildren Sam Peters (Katherine), Jessica Peters, Vivian Lemons, and Joshua Lemons.
Bob’s family gathered from multiple states to celebrate his 90th birthday on July 31, 2022, at River Run Country Club in Davidson, NC. Bob reminisced with his family, recounting experiences from his lifetime.