Obituary of Jeffrey Scott Sutton

Jeffrey Scott Sutton, 63, of Chatham, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Cynthia “Zandi” Sutton (née Ndebele); his son, Amos ”Sbu” Sibusiso; his parents, Robert, and Janice Sutton; several extended family members and many dear friends and colleagues.

He was predeceased by his sister, Maria Sutton Mandeville.

Jeff was born on July 17, 1959, in West Covina, CA. He grew up in Los Angeles and in New Plymouth, New Zealand and was a brilliant child. He returned to California to attend high school and college.

Jeff had an innate musical talent and found his love for playing the guitar. Jeff joined a blues band in Los Angeles and later herelocated to New Orleans where he joined another blues band.Jeff met his wife Zandi in New Orleans where the couple settled, welcoming their son Sbu shortly after. Jeff loved his family deeply and he was incredibly proud of his son Sbu. 

After hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans Jeff helped as many people as he possibly could. Jeff and Zandi moved back to her hometown in South Africa where they lived until 2010 when they moved back to the United States. Jeff ultimately accepted a new position with Advance Local in NYC as vice president of digital marketing. The family lived in Jersey City before settling in Chatham several years ago.

Jeff spent his life paying it forward. He was a strong supporter of social justice and whenever he saw someone in need he acted, always helping others. 

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a memorial service for Jeff on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Chatham United Methodist Church, 460 Main Street, Chatham, NJ. A reception will be held at the church following the memorial service.

In accordance with Jeff’s wishes, he was interred in an eco-friendly cemetery with his immediate family in attendance. 

In lieu of flowers, please practice a random act of kindness or charity in Jeff’s memory to someone less fortunate just as he would have.