By Jim Bloch
William “Buddy” Sutherland, a great supporter of young people in Port Huron, will be honored with a plaque in Port Huron’s Heritage Park on the Quay. The park sits on the southwest corner of Quay Street and Huron Avenue.
The city council voted unanimously at its regular meeting Jan. 8 to approve the request for the plaque.
“Buddy was a great advocate of youth in our community,” said Tyrone Burrell, founder and executive director of Save Our Neighborhoods & Streets Outreach, in a letter to the council. “He was involved as a coach and an organizer in the Kiwanis and SONS Flag Football League for over 33 years. He was also an advisor for Kids in Distress. Buddy made a huge impact in our community with his commitment, love smile, hugs and big heart. He enriched the lives of many. Buddy passed away in October after a long illness and we think it would be fitting that he be honored in this manner.”
Sutherland died Oct. 10 at the age of 64.
“He was very active in this community, with the groups, with the kids, just all kinds of stuff he’s done,” said his partner Fredricka Collier, as heard on the recording of the meeting posted on the city’s website.
In 2006, the city council established “Heritage Park on the Quay” and adopted a process for plaques to be installed along the walkway walls in the park. Plaques may be requested on behalf of deceased citizens who have been community benefactors or civic leaders; deceased historical figures; or key events in the city or components of its heritage. The funds for the plaques and any dedication services must be privately raised.
SONS raised the money for the plaque.
“Buddy was out in our community,” said council member Anita Ashford. “It wasn’t just the south end, it was everywhere.”
Ashford mentioned his involvement with Kids in Distress, the organization that provides children and teens with clothing and personal hygiene items when they are unexpectedly removed from their homes due to homelessness, a home fire, foster care or other issue.
“It wasn’t about color or anything,” said Ashford, who called Sutherland’s efforts “tireless.” “If the kids needed it, he was there.”
The council voted 6-0 to approve the installation of the plaque. Mayor Pauline Repp was absent with COVID.
Jim Bloch is a freelance writer based in St. Clair, Michigan. Contact him at bloch.jim@gmail.com.
3 comments
I knew Buddy through his competitions with my brothers while in high school, and later on when I transferred to PH Central where he is a legendary figure. This is a fitting and well deserved honor for a great, caring, and kind man.
My brother n law said Buddy should be hnored with a plaque so thank you from Amanda Sutherland Porter.
My dad was an amazing leader and role model of kindness from anyone’s perspective. He made alot of efforts helping others as at the same time raising me. I imagined a statue of my dad but a plaque shows just enough or the same vertue of love he spread throughout the community. So thank you, and everyone’s efforts to make this happen, so highly appreciated by all. Thank you again, Andrew baker.