James "Sunbeam" L. Sutherland III

James “Sunbeam” L. Sutherland, III of Laurinburg, NC departed this life at the age of 78 on March 4, 2025.

He was born June 2, 1946 in Marlboro County, SC, son of the late James L. Sutherland, Jr., and the late Mary Wall James Sutherland. Sunbeam started his working career as one of the original employees of the Coachmen and Four Club. For most of his working career, he was as a successful salesman with Aramark, selling vending and food service to local industries. He faithfully served as a member of the Laurinburg Presbyterian Church. Sunbeam was a pillar of the community, serving as a Scotland County Commissioner for 12 years and as the Executive Director on the Scotland County Tourism and Development Board. He served as a board member of the Scotland County Athletic Booster Club, a founding member of the Pemo Stewart Baseball League, and a life time member of the Laurinburg Optimist Club allowing him to share his love of baseball. Throughout all his accomplishment, Sunbeam felt his greatest accomplishment was being a Papa to his three adored grandchildren, Ashleigh, McKenna, and Cooper. He was a devoted husband, father, Papa and friend to many who will dearly miss him. 

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his adored wife of 53 years, Martha “Marty” Land Sutherland; brother, William “Fulton” Sutherland; and sister, Mary James Criscuolo.  

Left to rejoice in his memory is son, James “Jamie” L. Sutherland IV and wife, Debra of Laurinburg; his grandchildren, Ashleigh Bailey, McKenna Sutherland, and Cooper Sutherland; along with special nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of loving friends.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at the Laurinburg Presbyterian Church followed by a time of visitation in the church fellowship hall.

The family requests memorial donations be given to the Laurinburg Optimist Club or Scottish Pines Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

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