Joseph Wayne Sutton

Joseph Wayne Sutton, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the Memorial Mission Hospital. He was born on June 8, 1944, in Haywood County. 

Joe's career began as an upholsterer, a trade he honed over the years with skill and passion. Alongside his beloved wife Gail, Joe owned and operated Pat's Upholstery for many years.  Additionally, Joe was the proud owner and operator of The Lodge motel off Russ Avenue for an impressive 27 years.  Beyond his profession, Joe was known for being a direct descendant of the Suttons of Cataloochee Valley. This family heritage held great significance to him and added to the richness of his life.  Joe was also proud of his twelve years of perfect attendance from primary school all the way through high school.  Throughout his journey in this world, Joe embraced every opportunity to be a great daddy and Papaw to his loved ones. His tremendous support knew no bounds, as he always made sure to uplift them in every possible way. 

Joe served his country with pride and dedication as a member of the Air Force. His military service further exemplified his commitment to something greater than himself – a testament to his character.  In his free time, Joe found solace in traveling with his family to their second home in Alder, Montana. The joy he found from these trips underscored his love for exploring new places alongside those dear to him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Gail Sutton of Waynesville.  Joe also leaves behind two adoring daughters, Patty Horton and her husband Richard, and Cindy Smith and her husband David, both of Waynesville.  In addition to his wife and daughters, Joe is survived by his sister Nancy Crawford of Waynesville.  Joe will be deeply missed by his four grandchildren: Zack McGuinness (Megan), Paige McGuinness, Joseph Harrison Smith, and McKinley Smith. These grandchildren were a source of immense pride for Joe, as he watched them thrive and grow into remarkable individuals.  Furthermore, two great-grandchildren, Scott and Connor, had the privilege of experiencing Joe's love and joy firsthand.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Evelyn Phillips Sutton and brother, Phil Sutton.  

A memorial service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2024. The service will take place at Wells Funeral Homes of Waynesville.  The family will receive friends following the service at Wells Events and Reception Center.  

The care of Mr. Sutton has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.