Belle W. Sunderland – March 27, 2016
Belle W. Sunderland, 100, the wife of the late Rev. Thomas W. Sunderland died in her sleep Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016, in Las Vegas, Nev., where she had lived the past 25 years, near her youngest son. A memorial service was held at Camp Chapel UMC May 28, with the Rev. Richard Brown-Whale officiating.
Belle Wagner was born Nov. 6, 1915, one of six children born to the Wagner family in Parkville. She was a graduate of Eaton Barnett Business School in Baltimore and worked at several jobs before her marriage to Thomas W. Sunderland in 1936. After her marriage she assumed the role of being “the preacher’s wife” by supporting her husband, belonging to groups and circles in the many churches they served together.
His appointments included Seat Pleasant, 1937-40; Texas Circuit, 1940-43; Chase, 1943-47; Berkeley Springs, W. Va., 1947-51; Kemptown, 1951-63; Highlandtown, 1953-60; Eastport, 1960-1963; Epworth, Capitol Hill, D.C., 1963-1970; St. Johns, Lutherville, 1976-1978. He retired in 1978 and died in 1982.
Survivors include her two sons: John F. Sunderland of Las Vegas, and T. Stanley Sunderland II in Buford, Ga.; three grandchildren and their families; and one great grandson. Her youngest sister also survives.
Condolences may be sent to John Sunderland, 2357 Canfield Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89108-3242.