Patricia Ann Sutherland, age 92, passed away peacefully in Waterford, Michigan on December 13, 2018 with family by her side. Born August 26, 1926 in Indianapolis, Indiana, Patricia was the eldest daughter of Herbert and Lucille (Bailey) Jenkins. She spent much of her youth in Indianapolis attending Shortridge High School. She graduated from Purdue University in 1950 with a Bachelor of Science degree. She was an active member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

While attending Purdue, she met Robert George Chesley of Farmington, Michigan. They were married on June 2, 1951 at North Methodist Church in Indianapolis. She had three sons, Robert George Jr, Brian Douglas, and Scott Edmund.

In 1974, following the death of her husband, Robert, Patricia served as President of Inland Industries, Inc., a commercial real estate development and holding company. She successfully managed the firm for many years until she retired.

On October 14, 1978, she married Charles W. Sutherland III, at the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, Michigan. They were married for 38 years until Charles' passing in 2016.

Throughout her life she proudly served her community in many ways including volunteering at Providence Hospital Emergency Room and at the Fort Street Church Open Door Program in Detroit. She was a past-president of the Farmington Jaycee Auxilliary, supported many charitable organizations including the Farmington Area Y.M.C.A., and served on its Board of Directors.

Patricia was a long time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, where she served as a Deacon in the 1970's. She enjoyed singing in church choirs since high school. Patricia was honored by being ordained as an Elder in 2001. In 2003, Patricia was presented with an Honorary Life Membership in Presbyterian Women. This honor is given to a person who has shown a commitment to Christ as well as outstanding service to the church congregation and the community. A contribution was given in her honor to help support the training of women for future leadership roles in the church.

An avid supporter of higher education, she has been involved in fundraising efforts for both Purdue University and Adrian College. For her ongoing efforts at Adrian College, she was made an Honorary Alumnus in October of 2002.

Patricia loved traveling the world over the years visiting countries in Europe and the Mediterranean, including a tour of the holy land in the early 1970's. She enjoyed golf and spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her three sons, Robert George Chesley Jr, Brian Douglas (Anne) Chesley and Scott Chesley; step-children Gail (Bill) Schenkle and C. William Sutherland IV, her sister Constance Kwartler, 6 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

A Memorial service for Patricia will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, 26165 Farmington Rd. Farmington Hills, Friday, December 21, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be held privately at Oakwood Cemetery, Farmington.

In lieu of flowers donations are suggested to Fort Street Open Door 631 Fort Street, Detroit, MI 48226 or Forgotten Harvest 21800 Greenfield Rd. Oak Park, MI 48237

Thank you for keeping Patricia and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.

Friday, December 21, 2018

11:00 AM

26165 Farmington Rd.
Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334

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