Douglas Forman Sutphin

In Loving Memory of Doug Sutphin

Doug Sutphin passed away on July 6, 2026, surrounded by the care and love of his family, close friend and beloved pets. Born in Long Branch, New Jersey and raised in Holmdel, Doug lived a life defined by excitement and adventure. Yet, his most important role in life was being a father to Anthony, a role that brought a constant twinkle to his eye, made his heart grow “three sizes each day” and filled him with immense pride.

Doug spent his life fully embracing the world around him. He served his community as a Fireman and EMT in Holmdel, channeled his creativity as a builder, pilot and instructor of remote-control airplanes and fueled his passion for racing as the owner and driver of his race team, the No. 9. He worked closely on the team with his brother Craig, who served as the head builder and mechanic and was Doug's proudest supporter the day he brought home the checkered flag.

As a Stage Technician for Thrill Hill Productions, Doug traveled the world numerous times on tour. This career allowed him to see incredible places, experience the unique gifts the world had to offer and build magical, lifelong friendships. He even made his official music debut on December 12, 1975, playing the sleigh bells on the holiday hit “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” a blessed gift his family will cherish every holiday season.

Throughout his career, Doug lent his talents to numerous bands and entertainers. He served as a Production Manager at Six Flags for concerts, special events and Fright Fest; managed the main stage at the Bethlehem Musikfest every August for a number of seasons and helped build the venue then known as the Ritacco Center from a shell, managing its subsequent show productions. He also embraced a special opportunity to teach middle school students in Mount Laurel, New Jersey showing them how to be exceptional stage hands and technicians for the school productions. Above all, Doug carried a deep love and respect for animals throughout his entire journey.

Doug was preceded in death by his “Nana”; “MomMom”; his parents, Walker and Shirley (Wolcott) Sutphin; his brother, Craig; his sister, Lynn; his niece, Christie; and all of the cherished pets he shared his life with over the years.

He is survived by his wife and friend of 43 years, Kathie; his son and daughter-in-law, Anthony and Margaret Fox; his beloved pets, Mabel, Annie, Luke, and Matilda; and his good friend, Donna Bradach. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, seven sisters-in-law, seven nephews, four nieces, three grand-nephews, two grand-nieces and a circle of very close family friends. Respecting Doug’s wishes, no services are planned at this time. In honor of his deep love for animals, his family will be making a donation to the Udder Chaos Farm Sanctuary. If you would like to join them in supporting Rodney and his fellow farm mates, donations can be made online or by mail:

Udder Chaos Farm Sanctuary

PO Box 1184

Wrightstown, NJ 08562

Website: udderchaos.givecloud.co

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com