John Russell Sutphin

Mr. John Russell Sutphin, 53, of Mount Airy, passed away Friday, January 28, 2011, at his home. He was born December 22, 1957, in Surry County, to the late Russell Sidney and Fannie Hale Sutphin. He was employed at Speedy Chef in Mount Airy as the night manager for more than 20 years, serving up good food, jokes, laughs and friendship. He was also well known for keeping the spirit of Christmas alive and playing Santa Claus every year for many families, organizations, and businesses throughout the community. John was an enthusiastic sports fan, especially when it came to the North Carolina Tarheels. He is survived by five sisters and brothers-in-law, Nancy and Edwin Hollingsworth of Thomasville, Frances and Frank Pratt of Manchester, TN, Susan Sutphin, Mary and Bill Farmer, and an adopted sister, Adena Moore, all of Mount Airy; a very special stepson, Austin Moxley and his sweet sister, Chelse Rippey of Mount Airy; several nieces and nephews; and extended family and friends. He also had two wonderful lifelong friends, Todd and Lewis Spencer. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, February 1, 2011, at 2:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy, with the Rev. Dwight Sechrist officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakdale Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at the funeral home.