The Collins High School community is grieving the loss of Malia “Tiny” Nicole Sutherland, a 16-year-old Shelbyville student and Titans cheerleader who died Saturday, October 31.
Her father, Ronnie Lee Sutherland Jr., shared a public tribute to his daughter with words that speak to the heartbreak of losing her: “Sixteen years simply wasn’t enough.”
Gary Tipton wrote in a public Facebook post that his niece, Malia, had been involved in an ATV accident in Shelbyville on Halloween.
Collins Athletics announced her death and asked the community to keep Malia’s family, her cheer teammates and the school in their thoughts and prayers.
The school also expressed gratitude for the support surrounding its students and staff, thanking Southeast Christian Church, district mental health consultants, Shelby County Public Schools and the individuals who have reached out with condolences.
There are opportunities in the coming days to gather, remember Malia and support her family. Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 4, from 1 to 8 p.m. at Shannon Funeral Home. Her funeral is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, at 1 p.m., followed by burial at Grove Hill Cemetery.
Memorial gifts may be made in Malia’s name to the Titans Cheer fund through Collins High School.
Please join us in praying for Malia’s parents and family, her friends, her teammates, and the teachers and classmates mourning her. Pray for comfort, strength and the people walking beside them through the days ahead.