John Thomas Sutton III (Tommy) passed away October 17, 2023 at Wake Med in Raleigh. As a Kinston native, he was a graduate of Grainger High School. Tommy was a graduate of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee where he recently served as a Trustee for nine years. Proudly he served his country in the US Marine Corps.

As a youth in Kinston, Tommy earned his Eagle Scout Badge in Troop 43. When he returned home to work, he continued his association with the same troop. Tommy and his wife owned J. T. Sutton Insurance Agency. While in the insurance business, Tommy served the industry locally, statewide and nationally. He was President of the Carolinas Association of Professional Insurance Agents (CAPIA) as well as being the National President of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). Tommy was a board member of the North Carolina Joint Underwriting Board for many years. Currently he was the Chairman of the Public Officers and Employees Liability Insurance Commission.

As a proud marine he was a member of American Legion Post 43 in Kinston where he served in various positions. Also, he served on both state and national committees. Tommy was always active in the Kinston community for those with developmental disabilities.

With retirement to Morehead City, Tommy served St. Andrews Episcopal Church on the Vestry and many other ways. He was also, for many years, on the Diocesan Finance Committee. Hunting, fishing, traveling and being at the farm were an enjoyment to him.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Mary Howard Sutton.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, October 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Morehead City.