Rev. Sudealia (Herring) Douthard

With heartfelt sympathy, we announce the earthly transition of Mrs. Sudealia Douthard of Gadsden, who traded time for eternity on Thursday, October 13, 2022, at the age of 72.  We ask that you keep her family and friends in your prayers during this difficult time.

Iota Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sority, Inc., will conduct The Ivy Beyond the Wall Ceremony for Rev. Sudealia Douthard will be Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 4:30 pm.  This ceremony is open to the public.

Sudealia Herring Douthard was born to Frank Herring Jr. and Margaret Herring Lightsey on July 9, 1950, in Gadsden, Alabama.  She was the oldest of five children. 

At an early age, Sudealia joined St. John CME Church where she confessed Christ as her Lord and personal Savior.  She loved serving her church as youth director and a member of the choir.  She later answered the call to minister in 1990.  She led several churches across the Fifth Episcopal District of the CME Church as a well-loved Pastor.

Sudealia graduated from high school with Carver High School’s Class of 1969.  She completed higher education studies at Miles College and Jacksonville State University.  She earned master’s degrees from the University of Alabama and Beeson Divinity School.  She became a member of the Iota Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., in 1993.

Sudealia began her teaching career in the Anniston City School System as an aide and substitute.  She then started teaching English and Drama full-time at Litchfield High School in 1988.   She retired from teaching in 2006 and continued pastoring until her health declined.

Sudealia is proceeded in death by her father, Frank Herring Jr.; two brothers, Gerard Herring and James Herring; and her stepfather Rev. Joseph H Lightsey.

Sudealia leaves to cherish her memory, two daughters, Kamilah and Shayna Douthard of Gadsden, AL; a grandson, Darrell Prater of Ft Payne, AL; a granddaughter, Kadence Douthard of Gadsden, AL; her mother Margaret Lightsey of Gadsden, AL; two brothers, Douglas (Lois) Herring of Battle Creek, MI and Roderick Herring of Buffalo, NY; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. Sudealia (Herring) Douthard, please visit our floral store.