Who Is Popcorn Sutton? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Popcorn Sutton, born on October 5, 1946, in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, became an enduring figure in American culture due to his audacious moonshining career and charismatic personality. Sadly, he passed away on March 16, 2009, but his legacy continues to influence pop culture and the spirits industry. Sutton's life story embodies the rugged independence of Appalachian culture and has inspired many books and television shows.
| Occupation | Criminals |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 5, 1946 |
| Age | 62 Years |
| Birth Place | Maggie Valley, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 16 March, 2009 |
| Died Place | Parrottsville, Tennessee, U.S. |
Popularity
Popcorn Sutton's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Despite his larger-than-life persona, specific measurements related to Sutton's height and weight were not extensively documented. However, he was known to be of an average height and had a stout build, reflective of his country upbringing and physically demanding lifestyle.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Popcorn Sutton was married to Pam Sutton, who was also a supportive figure in his moonshining operations. The couple shared a close bond, and Pam frequently stood by him during his legal battles and personal struggles. Though no public information about Sutton's dating history prior to his marriage is readily available, his relationship with Pam remains a significant part of his story.
Sutton died by suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning on March 16, 2009, apparently to avoid a federal prison term due to begin a few days later.
His wife Pam, whom he had married about two years before his death, returned home from running errands and discovered her husband in his green Ford Fairmont (which was still running) at the rear of their property in Parrottsville, Tennessee. Mrs.
Sutton said, "He called it his three-jar car because he gave three jugs of liquor for it." His daughter said he had told her in advance that he would die by suicide rather than go to jail, adding that he had "the strength to die the way he lived: according to his own wishes and no one else's."
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Popcorn Sutton was estimated to have a net worth of around $1 million. Much of this wealth stemmed from his illicit moonshining business, which he capitalized on before his arrest in 2007. His legacy has also thrived posthumously, with his brand of liquor recognized for its authenticity and craft, further enhancing his reputation and financial legacy.
Sutton's body was initially interred at a family graveyard in Mount Sterling, North Carolina. However, on October 24, 2009, it was relocated to his property in Parrottsville, and a private memorial service was held. His body was carried to its new resting spot by horse and carriage.
Sutton's memorial grew in spectacle as country music singer Hank Williams Jr. flew in to pay his respects. A small memorial was also held for close friends and family.
Career, Business, and Investments
Popcorn Sutton's career as a moonshiner was marked by both triumphs and tribulations. He became well-known for producing high-quality moonshine, earning him a plethora of admirers while simultaneously drawing the attention of law enforcement. His arrest in 2007 for illegal distilling did not diminish his popularity. After his death, Sutton's image was embraced by the legal spirits industry, and his moonshine brand has continued to gain traction, generating additional revenue.
Sutton died by suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning in March 2009, aged 62, rather than report to federal prison after being convicted of offenses related to moonshining and illegal firearm possession. Since his death, a new company and associated whiskey brand have been named after him.
Social Network
Popcorn Sutton's life and legacy live on through various social media platforms and dedicated fan pages. While he may not have been part of these networks during his lifetime, fans celebrate his contributions and continue to share his story. Hashtags like #PopcornSutton and #Moonshine can be found across platforms, illustrating the continued interest in his life and work.
Sutton was featured in the 2007 documentary Hillbilly: The Real Story on The History Channel. The source footage from the 2002 documentary was also re-worked into another Hutcheson documentary, The Last One, which was released in 2008 and was broadcast on PBS. It received a 2009 Southeast Emmy Award.
Education
Little is known about Popcorn Sutton's formal education, as he often emphasized practical skills over academic achievements. Growing up in a rural Appalachian setting, he learned the art of distilling from his family and the surrounding community, honing his craft and preserving traditional methods.
"He was a short, skinny fella, who always wore his hat – that was kind of his claim to fame, his hat that he always wore. And his bib overalls – he always wore bib overalls. Even when he came to federal court, he was wearing bib overalls.
He was a friendly fellow, and of course every time you would talk to him, he would say, "Ray, I've run my last run of moonshine, I'm not gonna do it anymore, I'm just getting too old to be doing this stuff.""
