09/04/2026
The Monument joins the rodeo community in mourning the loss of Jim Sutton, a true pioneer of the rodeo world and a storied part of nearly 50 years of our history.
Jim had a vision to make Rapid City home to one of the best rodeos in the nation, and he succeeded. Through his production mind, showmanship and unwavering commitment to the sport, he helped build Rodeo Rapid City into an event recognized among the very best in professional rodeo, earning countless PRCA Rodeo of the Year nominations and 7 wins along the way.
But Jim’s influence reached far beyond the arena in Rapid City. From livestock genetics and rodeo production to the generations of people he mentored and influenced, his impact on the sport is difficult to measure.
We are incredibly proud that this rodeo legend is also such an important part of The Monument’s story. His legacy lives on through his family, through the sport he helped shape and every time the chutes open and rodeo returns to Rapid City.
Our deepest condolences go out to the entire Sutton family and all those who had the privilege of knowing Jim.
James (Jim) Sutton Jr.
4-20-1935 ~ 9-3-2026
Today, we said goodbye to our patriarch, an innovator, record setting athlete and a true cowboy legend.
Our legend.
He believed in hard work, high integrity, superior performance and had a true love for competition, quality livestock, production & entertainment.
His wisdom was earned through a lifetime of experiences on the ranch, in the arena, on the court, the field and the rodeo road.
His influence was felt throughout the Western industry, leaving behind a legacy that is far from finished. It lives on in the values he taught, in the land he loved, and the stock he raised.
A great man.
A great cowboy.
A great dad and grandfather.
A great leader.
A life well lived.
We say farewell with sorrow, but also with gratitude.
May he make this final ride knowing he leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and a legacy that they will strive to carry on.
Rest easy, your work here is done.
Jim’s services are pending and in preparation for this day, he has requested that in lieu of flowers any memorials be sent to the following organizations that were so important to him throughout his life;
- SDSU Athletic-Rodeo/Basketball
- Casey Tibbs Hall of Fame, Ft Pierre, SD
- ProRodeo Hall of Fame, Colorado Springs, CO
