Philip K. Sutherland

The family of Philip (Phil) K. Sutherland are deeply saddened by his passing on May 11, 2012 in Longmont, Colorado. Phil was born on March 25, 1925 in Santa Rosa, California, one of five children born to George and Martha Sutherland. On December 3, 1942 Phil enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. As a member of the 1st Marine Division Phil saw action in the Pacific and took part in operations on the islands of Peleliu, Port Glouster, and Okinawa. Twice wounded in combat, Phil was awarded the Purple Heart with Gold Star. On May 24, 1946 Phil married his sweetheart Lillie H. Haas of Waco, Texas. Phil and Lillie spent most of their early life in Dallas, Texas where Phil started his career in the printing industry, while Lillie raised their only son. In 1967 Phil and Lillie relocated from Dallas to the Waco area. In 1968 Phil made a bold career move leaving the printing industry to begin a second career as a Service Representative for the IBM Corporation in Waco. During his years with IBM Phil developed many deep and lasting friendships with his co-workers and Customers, we know they share in our sadness at his passing. Following his retirement from IBM Phil dedicated his life to caring for his beloved Lillie whose health had begun to deteriorate. Until her passing in 2010 Phil remained at her side as her sole caretaker providing physical and moral support and comfort. His dedication to, and loving care for his wife of 64 years serves as an inspiration to all who knew him. Phil and Lillie were members of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit in Waco, and Phil was an active Member of Military Order of the Purple Heart for many years.

Phil is survived by his son Kenneth Sutherland of Longmont, Colorado, his brother George Sutherland of Mariposa, California, his brother John Sutherland of Chico, California and a substantial number of nieces and nephews. Our extended family mourns the loss of this exceptionally kind and caring man, but we find comfort in the knowledge that he is in the loving embrace of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ today.

A final farewell viewing will take place Friday evening May 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Connally Compton Funeral Home. Funeral Services will take place at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit at 10:00 AM Saturday May 19th followed by internment at Oakwood Cemetery.