Jack Darnell Sutherland

Jackson Darnell Sutherland Jr. October 31, 1976 – June 17, 2025, | Age 48

Memorial Service: Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 4:00pm.

Palmetto Funeral Home. 2049 Carolina Place Drive. Fort Mill, SC. 29708.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jackson Darnell Sutherland Jr., a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who passed away on June 17, 2025, after a nearly seven-year courageous battle with cancer. He was 48.

Known as Jack to family and friends, was born on October 31, 1976, in Radford, Virginia. Jack lived a life marked by compassion, creativity, service, and joy. Jack faced his illness with unwavering courage, strength, and an inspiringly positive spirit. He never complained, even on his most difficult days, always more concerned with the well-being of others than himself.

Jack was a devoted husband to Maria Sutherland and a loving, proud father to Ethan and Landon Sutherland. He cherished nothing more than spending time with his sons—especially watching Charlotte Football (Soccer) Club and Hornets games, enjoying Marvel movies and shows, or simply laughing together at stand-up comedy. His great sense of humor, creativity, and gentle spirit made everyone feel welcome, transcending cultures and generations.

Jack’s brilliance was undeniable, though he never boasted about it. A graduate of Charlotte Christian School, he earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. His career as a Full Stack Software Developer was distinguished not only by his technical expertise but also by his creativity and passion for digital innovation.

Jack’s talents extended far beyond code. He was a gifted musician, artist, and storyteller. In 1996, he and his high school friends formed Hillside Groove, where he played bass guitar and DJ’d. That same year, the band won “Battle of the Bands,” sparking a lifelong love for performing. Jack went on to play in local bands including Rando Tribe and Exit 85, a cover band he founded that brought the sounds of '80s and '90s rock and funk to life at venues across Fort Mill, SC. He also served joyfully in church worship bands, including at Watershed Church in Charlotte.

Jack’s heart for others was the driving force of his life. He was deeply committed to serving the poor, advocating for social justice, and championing equity and inclusion. He gave generously of his time and talents to numerous local and international nonprofit organizations, always seeking to uplift the underserved and give voice to the unheard.

From a young age, Jack expressed his love through art—creating pieces that reflected the depth of his empathy and love for his family. His life was a living example of sacrificial love, humility, and service-minded leadership.

Jack is survived by his wife Maria; sons Ethan and Landon; father Jack Sutherland Sr. and Stepmother Laura Sutherland; sister Sherri Bunch, brother-in-law Mark, and nieces Brittany and Jordan. He leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, bandmates, and community members whose lives were touched by his generosity, talent, and quiet strength.

He will be remembered for his sharp mind, compassionate heart, quiet strength, and the deep love he had for his family. His presence, guidance, and humor will be deeply missed. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy lives on in the countless lives he impacted.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations:

Common Heart

AIM at Melanoma

Melanoma Research Foundation – Leading the melanoma community through research, education and advocacy