Celebrating the life of
John Greg Sutlive
November 20, 1956 - November 26, 2025
John Gregory “Greg” Sutlive
November 20, 1956 – November 26, 2025
John Gregory “Greg” Sutlive, 69, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025. Born in Savannah, Georgia, on November 20, 1956, Greg was the son of William Kirkland Sutlive Jr. and Anne Prescott Sutlive, who instilled in him the values of kindness, curiosity, and hard work that would define his life.
Greg grew up in Atlanta and later attended St. Pius X High School, where he lettered in both football and golf. A gifted athlete, he captured the 1972 Atlanta Athletic Club Junior Men’s Championship by an unforgettable nine strokes—a feat whose margin of victory only grew in legend with each of Greg’s characteristically vibrant retellings.
He went on to attend the University of Georgia from 1976 to 1981, where he found three lifelong loyalties: his beloved Georgia Bulldogs, the brotherhood of the Kappa Alpha Order, and the field of Marketing. He often joked that these passions were prioritized in exactly that order.
In 1982, Greg embarked on a 41-year career in the paper and packaging industry, proudly following in his father’s footsteps. Along the journey, he met his cherished wife Stephanie while working for the Mead Paper Company in Columbus, Georgia. Greg’s career took the family from Atlanta to Columbus for 14 years, where they raised their children, and to Savannah in 2006. Greg continued his hard work and remained a committed leader and advisor in the field of corrugated, paper, and plastics, respected by colleagues for his integrity, insight, and ability to form meaningful connections with everyone he encountered.
Once in Savannah, Greg channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into real estate ventures and passion projects with close friends, also known as the MAFATUA. In 2006, the group opened the Bonna Bella Yacht Club—described by the Savannah Morning News as a lively, history-soaked gathering place that didn’t take the word “yacht” too seriously.
A natural storyteller, Greg had the rare ability to command a room with a single line. His deep, resonant voice—wrapped in a gentle Savannah drawl—made every tale feel larger than life. He loved golf, time on the water, tennis, business ventures, great movies, and an even better story. Above all, Greg loved people: their ideas, their ambitions, and their company.
But nothing compared to the love he held for his family. His beloved wife, Stephanie; his children, Maggie and Kirk; and especially his grandchildren, Grayson and Caroline, were the center of his world. Those close to Greg witnessed how conversations once filled with football scores or political debates were joyfully overtaken by photos, stories, and awe-filled reflections on his granddaughters. His love for them knew no bounds.
Greg cherished his friendships, spending countless hours sailing aboard The Mystic through the backwaters of Savannah and Hilton Head. His connections drove his amazing talent to talk on the phone for hours, loving to stay connected with his friends and family from near and far. Those calls will surely be missed by all who loved him.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents, William Kirkland Sutlive Jr. and Anne Prescott Sutlive, as well as his brother William “Kirk” Sutlive III.
He is survived by his devoted wife of forty years, Stephanie; his children, Maggie Sutlive Stone (Tim) of Atlanta and Kirk Sutlive (Marisa) of Bluffton; his grandchildren, Grayson and Caroline; his siblings Karen Oliver (John), Maureen Taylor (Mike), Maryann Sutlive, and Barry Sutlive (Scarlett); and numerous nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.
Greg lived boldly, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy of joy, generosity, and unforgettable stories. His impact will continue to echo in the lives of all who knew him.
He was a “DAMN GOOD DAWG”.
A Celebration of his life will be 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at The Savannah Country Club, 501 Wilmngton Island Road, Savannah, GA 31410.
I love you so much Uncle Greg. The world will never be the same without you in it. I miss you terribly already.
- Chris, Donalsonville, Georgia
As we all know Greg was a personality. He was vibrant in life. Even with his larger than life personality it was impossible to miss his passion for others. He was a great person who never took advantage of others and generally wanted the best for others. A quality person who was a leader in his actions.
- Gordon young, Loudon, TN
Rest in peace my old friend. He was a hoot to hang around with.
- doug dupuis, Wilmington, NC, NC
Stephanie, I worked with Greg in Americus a long time ago and thought so much of him. So saddened to hear of his death. Prayers and comfort to you and yours.
- Sharon Norris , Griffin, GA
A candle has been lit!
Godspeed Greg
- Kelly Hines, Canton, OH
I was lucky enough to have met and got to know Greg a hand full of years ago and the moment I did it seemed we had known each other forever. He was the first person in my life to ever call me princess and absolutely made me feel like one. I'm grateful to have known and loved Greg very much and will miss him always! Thank you Greg for all your love!
- Heather, Atlanta, Ga
Stephanie, it was a shock when I heard, my prayers and thoughts are with you and Kirk and Maggie. Gregory was a damn good egg and my favorite cousin. Ever since I can remember Greg had sense for style and taste that's not easily matched. Gods speed brother...
- Stephen Sutlive, savannah, Georgia
Greg commanded the room with his charisma. His sense of humor, stories told with his melodious voice and his love were gifts that shaped my life in many ways I will cherish. Though my heart aches, I know he is at peace, with mom, dad, and little Kirk. Greg, I love you deeply. I'll miss you beyond words, and I will carry your spirit with me until we meet again.
- Karen Sutlive Oliver , Atlanta, GA
Greg was a great buddy at St. Pius. We had a blast together. So sorry for your loss. We would talk recently at length he was so very proud of his family and grandchildren. Prayers up for a Great guy to all.
- Steven Hubbard, Evanston, Illnois
Greg was a great buddy at St. Pius. We had a blast together. So sorry for your loss. We would talk recently at length he was so very proud of his family and grandchildren. Prayers up for a Great guy to all.
- Steven Hubbard, Evanston, Illnois
Stephanie, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Greg. He was a man of great integrity and character. God has another special angel to serve us .
- Ann Sutlive, Gainesville, GA
Stephanie, Maggie, Kirk ,and family our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Greg was a wonderful person. He loved you all very much and I know he was and is still very loved by you . May God bless you with peace and comfort in your loss . Love and prayers.
- The Findley family , BoxSprings , Georgia
My condolences to the family. Greg and I worked together at Mead and E Smith Box, Inc.
- Eddie R Smith Sr, Lithonia , Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Celebration of Life
- 4-7 pm on Tue, December 02, 2025
- Savannah Country Club
-
501 Wilmington Island Road (map)
Savannah GA 31410