Doreene Sutton

On December 26, 1956, in Passaic, New Jersey, the world was blessed to receive Doreene Gary—a feisty, no-nonsense spirit whose strength, laughter, and love would touch everyone she met. Born to William Mitchell Gary and Daisy Mae Gary as one of 15 children, Doreene quickly learned how to stand her ground, fight for what was right, and fiercely protect the people she loved. Her fire made her unforgettable, her honesty made her respected, and her love made her cherished. As Doreene grew into adulthood, her fiery spirit was matched with a softer side when she met and married Ernest L. Sutton, whose steady presence balanced her boldness. Their union was built on mutual respect, laughter, and the shared commitment to family. Together, they made Delaware their home, where Doreene rooted herself deeply in community and created a house filled with warmth, good food, and the kind of love that drew people in and kept them close. She was a devoted daughter, cherished sister and aunt, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother as well as a treasured friend whose presence could fill a room and whose words—sometimes sharp, always true—left no doubt where she stood. She poured her love into her four children—Tamika Gary, Tamara Gary, Yasin Gary (Kia), and Rashid Gary—and extended that love to her 10 grandchildren; Raimek Taylor, Chelsey Cason, Iyanna Gary, Tahjmere Gary, Gabriel Gullians, Taniyah Brooks, Raheem Stewart, Sorenity Martin, Diara Shipman, Juelz Coverdale and 4 great-grandchildren; Carter Crippen, Maddix Brittingham, Vyrse Brittingham, and Iyann Brittingham, they ALL were her pride and joy. Her family knew she was their protector, their biggest cheerleader, and the first to remind them to never settle for less than they deserved. For many years, Doreene served as a cook in the Red Clay School District, where she fed not just bodies but spirits. Her meals were hearty, her soul filled flavors unforgettable, and her care undeniable. Students and staff alike felt her heart in every plate she prepared. Her favorite song was D-Train’s “Keep On,” and its message reflected her life: keep the faith, push through the trials, and hold on to the ones you love. Doreene was a strong Christian woman whose faith never wavered, even in life’s hardest moments. She fought with courage, prayed with conviction, and loved with her whole heart. Her laughter, her boldness, her storytelling, her home cooked meals, her in-famous backyard BBQs, her dancing at family gatherings, and her unapologetic honesty will forever live in the memories of those blessed to have known her. On August 10, 2025, Doreene Sutton, went home to the Lord. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Daisy Gary; beloved husband, Ernest L. Sutton; and her siblings; Iris Poteete, Ernestine Williams, Georgia B. Harris and Philip Gary. She leaves to cherish her memory: her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her siblings and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will carry her light, her fight, and her love forward. Though she left us too soon, Doreene’s legacy is powerful and eternal—woven into the courage of her children, the faith of her family, and the countless stories that will be told about the woman who was equal parts love and fire. She will be deeply missed, joyfully remembered, and forever cherished. A viewing will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, 635 Churchmans Rd., Newark, DE, 19702, from 10-10:30 AM. A celebration of life will begin at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at Delaware Veterans Cemetery at 1 PM. To send an online condolence visit www.stranoeeley.com.

Doreene Sutton

December 26, 1956 - August 10, 2025

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