ANN KATHLEEN TAVENDER SUTHERLAND

Ann Graham Tavender Sutherland — A Life Beautifully Lived

(1928–2026)

Fort Worth lost one of its most beloved treasures on February 17, 2026, when Ann Graham Tavender Sutherland passed away at the remarkable age of 97. A true Fort Worth original, Ann lived nearly a century with grace, joy, and an infectious love of life that touched everyone lucky enough to know her.

Born on June 19, 1928, to Kathleen Jones Graham and Thomas Eddie (T.E.) Graham right here in Fort Worth, Ann was destined for adventure from the start. After earning her degree from the University of Texas in Austin, she spread her wings — literally — working for the glamorous Braniff Airlines.

It was during the war that fate stepped in with its finest work. Ann met the dashing Roy Duckworth Tavender while he was training in Terrell, Texas, to fly Spitfires for the Royal Air Force. After the war, Roy came straight back to Fort Worth — and to Ann. Together they built a wonderful family, welcoming daughter Diann Graham Tavender in 1955, and son Edward Graham Tavender in 1958.

After losing Roy in 1990, Ann found love again with Jack Sutherland, and the two became the most enthusiastic world travelers you'd ever meet — always chasing great adventures and even better cuisine!

Ann was the kind of woman who made every room brighter. Whether she was outplaying her childhood friends at the bridge table, piecing together custom puzzles filled with treasured family memories, or lending her time and talents to River Crest Country Club, the Junior League of Fort Worth, Jewel Charity Ball, the Lecture Foundation, or the Fort Worth Garden Club — Ann showed up fully and joyfully for life.

She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, friendship, and love that will be felt for generations. Ann is survived by her son, Edward Graham Tavender, and grandson, John Christian Stadler III, of Knoxville, TN. She was preceded in death by her daughter Diann Tavender Stadler, grandson Graham Edward Stadler, son-in-law John Christian Stadler II, and husband Jack Sutherland.

Ann will be dearly and deeply missed by her son and grandson, and by the multitude of close personal friends whose lives were forever enriched by her warmth, wit, and wonderful spirit. What a magnificent 97 years it was.

A Service at the Grave will be held at 11 am Thursday, February 26, in Greenwood Memorial Park.