Howard Wayne Sutton

Howard Wayne Sutton, age 85, well-known Rogers High School football and basketball coach, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2013, at his home. He was born in Huntsville on March 30, 1928, to the late Theodore "Ted" and Blanche (Franklin) Sutton. Howard was a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps and received his bachelor's degree from Central State University in Edmond, Okla. He was deployed to serve in the Marine Corps during the Korean conflict, and after his tour of duty he returned to Springdale and married Betty Jean Freeman. He later attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville from which he received his Master's degree. He moved to Rogers and became the basketball and football coach for the high school. After successful years of coaching, he became principal of Rogers High School, and remained in that position for many years. Howard was inducted into both the Rogers and Springdale sports halls of fame for his sporting activities – both playing and coaching. Howard was a strong disciplinarian, but under this was a quiet, strong and gentle man. He loved all sports and enjoyed playing golf. Above all, he loved his family and friends. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Betty Sutton, of the home; son, Thomas Sutton and wife, Andrea Casher, of Philadelphia; sisters, Linda Holler and Patsy Stiles; brother, Hal and wife, Kristi; brother-in-law, Jerry Freeman and wife, Frances; granddaughters, Leah and Kyra Sutton. He will also be missed by countless friends, classmates, students and athletes. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Kevin Sutton. Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at Central United Methodist Church in Rogers. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the American Lung Association, 1301 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20004, or online at www.lung.org. Arrangements are by Rollins Funeral Home of Rogers. Online condolences may be made at www.rollinsfuneral.com.