Obituary of Elsie Joan Sutherland

Elsie Joan Sutherland (Joan), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, at the age of 95.

Born on September 23, 1930, in Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania, to William Patterson and Margaret Cantley, Joan’s life was one of resilience, adventure, and enduring love. When she was 18 months old, her parents returned to their home in Blyth, Northumberland, England, where she spent her early childhood. At the onset of World War II, Joan was evacuated to Australia at just nine years old, with the assistance of the Children’s Overseas Reception Board.  She sailed on the MS Batory (The Singing Ship).  She was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle throughout the war years. After the war ended, she returned to her parents in Blyth, reuniting with her family and beginning the next chapter of her life.

It was in England where Joan met the love of her life, Benjamin Sutherland, at a dance in Blyth, at the Roxy Ballroom. The two married on February 10, 1951, and soon after moved to Staten Island, New York. They later settled in Kearny, New Jersey, where they built a warm and loving home to raise their family.

Joan attended Gregg’s Business School in Newcastle, England, and then worked at the Blyth Telephone Exchange. She started her carrier in the US with Sullivan and Cromwell on Wall Street; and worked and retired from the Newark law firm McCarter and English.

Joan lived a full and joyful life surrounded by family, friends, and the simple pleasures she cherished most. She loved reading, cross-stitch, and needlepoint, often creating beautiful pieces that her family will treasure forever. She and Benny shared a love of travel, especially returning to the U.K. during the summers to spend time with family. Joan also enjoyed shopping, dressing elegantly, listening to 1940s music, and dancing with her husband—moments that captured her grace, spirit, and timeless charm.

Above all, Joan adored her family. She found her greatest happiness in being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her gentle nature, warmth, and kindness made everyone feel loved and welcome in her presence.

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Benjamin Sutherland, and her brothers, Roderick and John Patterson.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Christine Sutherland (Michelle Mendez) and Moira Barresi (Charles); her cherished grandchildren Margaret (Gabriel), Alex (Mariah), Benjamin (Elissa), Raphael, and Luca; and her treasured great-grandchildren Charles, Thomas, Elsie, Bryan, and Moira. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will remember her with love.

A celebration of life service will be held in the spring of 2026 and Joan will be laid to rest with her husband in Blyth, UK.  

Joan will be remembered for her gentle heart and the love she gave so freely—a beautiful soul whose legacy lives on in the family she so deeply cherished.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Joan’s memory to:

Homeless Solutions Inc

3 Wing Drive, Suite 245
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

https://homelesssolutions.org/how-you-can-help/donate-money-design/donate-now/