Rev. Thomas J. Sutherland

Reverend Thomas Sutherland, a beloved priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit who devoted more than 65 years of his life to serving God and His people, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 17, 2026, following a recent fall requiring hip surgery. Father Tom's priesthood was defined by one simple thing: people. He had a never-ending desire to serve those entrusted to his care, and ministry was always the most important thing to him. He was, in every sense, a people's priest. We are deeply saddened by his passing but so grateful for his long, fulfilling life and the wonderful example he leaves behind. Born in Detroit, Father Sutherland was the son of the late Ariel and Helen (Holmes) Sutherland. He was ordained to the priesthood on December 18, 1960, in Rome, beginning what would become more than six decades of devoted service to the Archdiocese of Detroit. His early priestly assignments included Sacred Heart Parish in Dearborn and St. Christopher Parish in Detroit, followed by service at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Detroit, where he served first as administrator and later as pastor. He subsequently served as pastor of St. Matthias Parish in Sterling Heights and Most Holy Trinity Parish in Detroit. Fr. Tom Sutherland served as the vicar of the old West Detroit Vicariate within the Archdiocese of Detroit from 1970 to 1973. In this role, he coordinated regional pastoral efforts, assisted the archbishop in overseeing local parishes, and supported collaborative ministry. In 1991, Father Sutherland was appointed the founding pastor of St. Therese of Lisieux Parish in Shelby Township. He served the parish for 14 years, until 2005, helping establish a new Catholic community that would become an important spiritual home for generations of families in northern Macomb County. For Fr. Tom, building a parish was about much more than buildings. It was about building relationships and creating a spiritual home for families. The community he helped establish remained close to his heart throughout his life. Fr. Tom Sutherland served as a dedicated Fourth Degree member, Faithful Friar, and Chaplain for various Knights of Columbus councils and assemblies, including serving as the first council chaplain at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church. Even after retiring from full-time parish ministry, Fr. Tom never really retired from being a priest. His desire to serve never diminished. He continued to celebrate Mass, assist parishes and make himself available to people whenever he was needed. Fr. Tom was a people's priest in the truest sense. He valued personal relationships and found great meaning in being present for people through every stage of their lives. He celebrated baptisms, First Communions, weddings and funerals, but his ministry extended far beyond the sacraments. He was there to listen, to offer counsel, to pray with people and, often, simply to sit and talk. Away from his ministry, he was an avid golfer and bridge player. He loved people and valued the time he spent with family and friends. Fr. Tom was the beloved brother of the late Mary Lois Sutherland, the late Sr. Kathleen Sutherland, O.P., the late Marilyn (late Dr. Paul) Rizzo, Mary (the late Doug) Hosefeld, Margaret (the late Charles) Missig, the late John Joseph Sutherland, F. Patrick (Joan) Sutherland, the late Marion (Harry) Faris, Judy Sutherland, and Daniel (Frances) Sutherland. He was a dear uncle and great-uncle of many nieces and nephews, who will remember him for his warmth, humor, faith and genuine interest in their lives. He will be deeply missed by his family, brother priests, parishioners and the countless people whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable priesthood. In honoring Fr. Tom's wishes, there will be no visitation prior to his in state time. He will lie in state Tuesday, August 25th from 8:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Shelby Township, Michigan 48315. Memorial contributions appreciated to the Archdiocese of Detroit. Arrangements by Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors.

Rev. Thomas J. Sutherland

June 12, 1935 - August 17, 2026