Hilda Maria Sutton

Hilda Maria Sutton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Leawood, Kansas, on August 23, 2025, at the age of 90.

Hilda was born on January 5, 1935, in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, to Alejandro and Hilda Salazar. While living in Tijuana, she met the love of her life, Gary Sutton, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. They married on June 30, 1961, in San Diego, California, beginning a life together built on love, laughter, and faith. As Hilda often said, “They spoke the language of love.”

After the birth of their first son, Damian, Hilda and Gary moved to Laramie, Wyoming, where Gary completed his degree at the University of Wyoming and Hilda taught Spanish and cooking to the professors’ spouses. Their family grew with the arrival of Garvin and Jason, and in 1966 they made their home in Duncan, Oklahoma, where they would spend the next five decades.

In Duncan, Hilda became an integral part of the community. She was an active member of Westside Church of Christ and later Chisholm Trail Church of Christ. With her exceptional talent as a seamstress, she created everything from simple alterations to elaborate wedding gowns. Hilda also nurtured her artistic spirit through photography, painting, and costume design, contributing her creativity to the Art Guild and the Duncan Little Theater. She devoted many years as a hospice volunteer and worked with local charities, always seeking ways to serve others.

In 2019, Hilda and Gary moved to Leawood, Kansas, where she quickly formed new friendships while continuing her greatest passion—cooking for her family and loved ones. She shared her recipes and traditions with her children and grandchildren, though none could ever quite recreate the magic of “Hilda’s touch.”

Hilda is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Gary; her siblings Alejandro Salazar, Loly Sanchez, Fina Alatriste (Miguel), Jose Luis Salazar (Maria Elena), and Carlos Salazar (Elena); her sons Damian Sutton (Patricia Demis), Garvin Sutton (Mary), and Jason Sutton (Connie); nine grandchildren—Alexander Sutton, Victoria Sutton, Ashley Sutton (Brandon Ray), Kaitlyn Flores (Ari), Kelby Sutton, Karsten Sutton, Keelie Sutton, Mitchell Sutton, and Laryssa Sutton; and three step-grandchildren—Abigail Brame, Nicholas Mason (Quincy), and Dr. Angela Richter (Brandon Briggs). She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry her memory with love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alejandro and Hilda Salazar; her in-laws, Harry and Wilma Sutton; her daughter-in-law, Debi Sutton; her sister- and brother-in-law, Sharon and Thomas Gray; and her step grandson, David Richter.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Hilda lived a life filled with faith, compassion, creativity, and love. She leaves behind a legacy of service, artistry, and devotion to her family. Her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed but forever remembered.