The identity of Angela Simmons' baby's father is a story of love, tragedy, and a lasting legacy. As of late 2024 and into 2025, the father of her only child, Sutton Joseph Tennyson Jr., remains her late ex-fiancé, Sutton Sean Tennyson. His life was tragically cut short in November 2018, when he was fatally shot outside his Atlanta home, leaving the reality star and entrepreneur to navigate the difficult path of single motherhood while keeping his memory alive for their son. This article delves into the full, updated story of Sutton Tennyson, the circumstances surrounding his shocking death, and the powerful way his son is carrying on his name today.
The continuous media coverage of Angela Simmons, particularly on shows like Growing Up Hip Hop, often touches upon the profound impact of Sutton's death. Recent updates confirm that their son, Sutton Joseph Jr., is now old enough to understand the gravity of his father's passing, a reality Angela has shared publicly as a difficult, ongoing conversation. The family's focus today is on honoring the man he was and ensuring his son inherits the business legacy he started.
Who Was Sutton Tennyson? A Full Biography and Profile
Sutton Tennyson was an American businessman and entrepreneur who gained public attention through his high-profile relationship with Angela Simmons, the daughter of hip-hop legend Rev. Run. Their relationship began around 2016, and they welcomed their son, Sutton Joseph Tennyson Jr., shortly after.
- Full Name: Sutton Sean Tennyson
- Date of Birth: November 5, 1980
- Place of Birth: Atlanta, Georgia (sometimes cited as Florida)
- Date of Death: November 4, 2018 (Age 37)
- Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (homicide)
- Occupation: Businessman, Entrepreneur (founded a children's clothing brand)
- Relationship Status: Ex-Fiancé of Angela Simmons
- Child: Sutton Joseph Tennyson Jr. (born 2016)
- Noteworthy: Sutton Tennyson was known to be a "reformed criminal" who was working to turn his life around before his death.
Tennyson proposed to Angela Simmons in April 2016, and they became engaged. However, the couple called off their engagement in late 2017, just over a year after the birth of their son. Despite the separation, they were actively co-parenting their son, Sutton Joseph Jr., at the time of his death.
The Tragic Details of Sutton Tennyson's Fatal Shooting
The tragic end to Sutton Tennyson’s life occurred on November 4, 2018, just one day before his 38th birthday. Police found him deceased inside his garage in Atlanta, Georgia, after responding to a call about shots fired.
The Homicide and Trial Outcome
The official autopsy report revealed the brutal nature of the crime: Sutton Tennyson was shot 13 times with a .45 caliber handgun. The investigation quickly led to the arrest of Michael Williams, who was charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The trial concluded with a guilty verdict for Williams. In 2022, Michael Williams was sentenced to life in prison plus 15 years for the murder of Sutton Tennyson. This outcome brought a measure of closure to Angela Simmons and the Tennyson family, though the pain of his loss remains a constant presence.
The Custody Battle Before His Death
A lesser-known but crucial detail of the final year of Sutton Tennyson's life was the reported custody battle with Angela Simmons over their son. The couple's relationship had become contentious, leading to legal proceedings. In December 2017, Angela Simmons filed for an order of protection against Tennyson.
By July 2018, just months before his death, Simmons had received temporary custody of Sutton Joseph Jr. The legal battle was ongoing, with the pair reportedly in Manhattan Family Court shortly before his murder. Sources indicated that Tennyson was paying $1,250 a month in child support and that the relationship was far from amicable, leading to a complex co-parenting dynamic that was tragically resolved by the homicide.
Sutton Tennyson's Enduring Legacy Through His Son in 2025
In the years following the tragedy, Angela Simmons has been fiercely dedicated to keeping Sutton Tennyson's memory alive, particularly for their son, Sutton Joseph Tennyson Jr., who is growing up without his father. The latest updates in 2024 and 2025 highlight a powerful way the father's legacy is being honored.
Sutton Joseph Jr. Becomes a CEO
In a heartwarming and symbolic move, Angela Simmons announced that their son, Sutton Joseph Jr., has been named the CEO of a children's clothing brand founded by his late father. This development ensures that the business and entrepreneurial spirit of Sutton Tennyson is passed directly to his child. The brand, Little Giants, now has the young Sutton Jr. as its figurehead, a testament to his father's vision and a way for the boy to connect with the man he lost.
Angela has spoken about how important it is for her son to understand his father's dreams and accomplishments, not just the tragic end of his life. By having ownership and involvement in the business, Sutton Joseph Jr. is actively participating in his father's legacy.
Angela Simmons' Ongoing Mourning and Co-Parenting Challenge
Despite the passage of time, Angela Simmons has been open about the pain of losing her ex-fiancé and the unique challenges of raising their son alone. She frequently shares tributes to Sutton Tennyson on social media, especially on their son's birthday and the anniversary of his passing.
A key focus of her recent interviews has been the difficulty of telling her son about his father's murder. She shared that Sutton Joseph Jr. learned about the details of his father's death through external sources, forcing an emotional conversation that she had hoped to control. This vulnerability has resonated with many single parents and those dealing with tragic loss, solidifying her status as a figure of strength and transparency.
The story of Angela Simmons' baby's father, Sutton Tennyson, is a profound narrative about navigating grief, the complexities of co-parenting, and the enduring power of a father's love. Through the successful prosecution of his killer and the continuation of his business through his son, his memory is not just preserved but actively thriving in 2025.
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