Judge William J. Sutherland, a pillar of justice and beloved patriarch, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025 at 85 years old. A lifelong public servant, Judge Sutherland dedicated more than five decades to the bench, becoming the longest-serving judge in Michigan history. He first sought office in the former Taylor Township. Judge Sutherland became Vice Chair of the commission elected to develop a city charter for the Taylor in 1966. In 1967, the charter was completed and voters approved creating the new city of Taylor. Judge Sutherland and his co-Judge for decades, Judge Nicita, were elected the first municipal judges in the new city, in 1968. In 1980, Judge Sutherland was elected to the 23rd District Court in Taylor, Michigan -a position he held with distinction until his retirement in 2015. He then served as a part time magistrate and visiting judge for many years. He served his community for over 55 years. Known for his fairness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice, he was widely regarded as a pillar in the city of Taylor. Judge Sutherland earned his undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University and his law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. His courtroom was a place of accountability and compassion, where he made a lasting impact on countless lives. In recognition of his service, the Taylor courthouse was named in his honor—a testament to the legacy he leaves behind. He was elected by his fellow judges as president of the Municipal Judges Association and president of the Wayne County District Judges. The District Judges of Michigan elected him to represent them on the State Judicial Council. One of Sutherland’s firm beliefs is that there is no such thing as coincidence. Whether it was how he met his wife after being introduced to her from a friend, or how he ended up taking the LSAT and scoring impressive results – “It only costs $10” he recalled, with a ‘why not’ attitude. Everything happens for a reason,” he said. “I think things are made to happen,” he said. Judge Sutherland was Vice Chair of the commission elected to develop a city charter for the Taylor in 1966. In 1967, the charter was completed and voters approved creating the new city of Taylor. Judge Sutherland and his co-Judge for decades, Judge Nicita, were elected the first municipal judges in the new city, in 1968. Judge William J. Sutherland was more than a figure on the bench—he was a guiding force in many lives. Known for his compassion and belief in second chances, he often encouraged those who stood before him to pursue a better path, whether that meant earning a GED, finding steady work, or entering rehabilitation. Over the years, countless individuals approached him in public to thank him for helping them turn their lives around. His legacy lives on not only in the courtroom, but in the lives he helped rebuild with dignity and hope. Beyond the robe, Judge Sutherland was a devoted husband to the late Nancy J. Sutherland, a cherished educator in Taylor’s elementary schools. Together, they raised four children—Timothy (Mary Anne), Keith (Christine), Deanna (Mike), and Jennifer (Ben) instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and family. He was also the proud grandfather of nine grandsons, 3 great grandsons and 2 great granddaughters, each of whom he adored deeply. A person of deep and abiding faith, Judge Sutherland was a steadfast member of his parish, rarely missing Sunday service in all his years. He believed in living by the values he professed, giving generously to support the church’s mission and outreach programs. His unwavering commitment sustained not only his own spiritual life, but also helped build and nurture the faith community he cherished. Judge Sutherland’s devotion to the Catholic Church was interwoven with every aspect of his life. His faith served as both compass and comfort, guiding his decisions. Judge Sutherland’s love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. Whether presiding over a courtroom or attending a grandson’s game, he brought the same quiet strength and heartfelt presence. His legacy lives on not only in the halls of justice but in the hearts of those who knew him. A memorial service will be held for family and close friends at St. Constance in Taylor, MI at 12 noon on August 9, followed by a private reception for those closest to Judge Sutherland and his family. In lieu of flowers, the family will accept donations at the reception honoring Judge Sutherland’s selected charities.
Author: gqlshare
https://www.thenewsherald.com/obituaries/william-j-sutherland-taylor-mi/
