Toby Jack Sutton of Jonesboro, Arkansas, departed this life on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 48. He was born on November 11, 1977, in Newport, the son of Albert Earl “Bud” and Mary Reta (Bryant) Sutton.
Toby graduated as the Valedictorian of his class from Weiner High School in 1996. After high school, he attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 2000. In 2002, Toby graduated from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro with a Master of Arts in English. He then enrolled at ASU-Mountain Home, where he obtained an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Funeral Service.
Toby dedicated several years to his career as a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer, maintaining a high standard of work across various funeral homes. Over time, he worked for establishments such as Jackson’s Funeral Homes, Gregg Funeral Home, Emerson Funeral Home, and Cornerstone, among others. His commitment to providing compassionate and professional service to families was key to his success in the funeral industry.
Toby was a member and former President of the Northeast Arkansas Funeral Directors Club, and a member of the American Society of Embalmers.
He had a sharp wit and a quiet intelligence. Toby was an avid reader who enjoyed writing. He had a love of family, and especially adored his mother.
Toby was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Weiner. He was a self-taught, gifted pianist and organist who loved nothing more than the sound of notes floating from the keys. He enjoyed playing the piano and organ for the Weiner Methodist Church over the years.
Toby was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Earl “Bud” Sutton and Mary Reta (Bryant) Sutton; and his beloved dog and constant companion, Morty.
He is survived by one brother, Jeffrey Sutton of Waldenburg; two sisters, Sheila Rae Riley of Grubbs, and Darlena Kay Powell Wilson of Morrilton; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; and a lifetime of friends and colleagues.
Funeral Mass is 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 1, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Weiner, following a 10:00 a.m. visitation. Interment will follow at St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
