Message from President Maxey regarding Don Sutton

Dear Maroons -  

I am writing to let you know Roanoke College lost a legend yesterday. Don Sutton, Director of Alumni Records, emeritus, has died. I was able to visit Don and say goodbye yesterday. I am grateful to have had one last opportunity to tell him how much he means to our community.  

His passing marks the end of an era for Roanoke.    

We celebrated Don’s 100th birthday in October. At that time, we shared the many messages received from alumni who remembered him fondly and were grateful for his influence in their lives.   

From 1956 to 1983, Don held several different positions at Roanoke College: Director of Student Activities, Dean of Men, Dean of Students, Director of Student Financial Aid, Director of Development, Director of Planned Giving, and Director of Alumni Affairs.  

Three spaces on campus have previously been named in his honor -- Sutton Commons, Sutton Patio and Sutton Terrace. The Donald M. Sutton Sr. Endowed Student Scholarship was created in 2020 by the Class of 1970 in honor of their 50th reunion. Don helped many students throughout his time at Roanoke either with financial aid or mentorship. 

Don was a native of Christiansburg. He graduated in 1939 from The George School, a private boarding school in Newton, Pennsylvania, and later received a Bachelor of Science degree from Ithaca College in physical education and history. Don served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star. Before joining the administrative staff at Roanoke College in 1956, he served as the commandant of cadets at Staunton Military Academy, taught at Bordentown Military Institute in New Jersey, and coached at The George School.   

We are grateful for Don’s full commitment to Roanoke College and the wonderful and generous ways he contributed to our community. Please join me in sending condolences to Don’s family. We will share information regarding funeral services when they are available.  

Michael C. Maxey, President 

Updated Dec. 13, 2021:

A funeral service and celebration of Don Sutton's life will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Salem on Friday, Dec. 17 at 1:00 p.m. Following the service a reception will be held on campus, in Pickle Lounge of the Colket Center.