James Luttrull, Sr., was as fit for heaven as anyone could be. He journeyed there after dying peacefully at home on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the age of 91.
James was born on January 5, 1933, in Evansville, Indiana, to Rev. Amon Luttrull, a preacher, evangelist, and missionary, and to Ruth Luttrull, a missionary and educator. On a Christian foundation, he was taught to love church, music, and education. He married his childhood sweetheart, June Simpson, on December 8, 1951, and they loved each other faithfully for 71 years until June’s death. Theirs was a true love story.
James graduated from Evansville Bosse, University of Evansville, and Indiana State University, receiving a master’s degree in education. For a decade he taught in Marshall County, Indiana, before becoming Dean of Students at Marion College (Indiana Wesleyan University) in August of 1964. For over 20 years as Dean, his positive, godly character influenced thousands of collegians and colleagues. James also led the IWU counseling center for several years, followed by serving as site director of the Marion Ivy Tech campus. In retirement, he served as Chaplain at Wesleyan Health and Rehabilitation Center for 18 years, where he joyfully ministered to the residents and staff.
James was a wonderful singer and grew up singing with his siblings on his parents’ radio show. For decades, June and James sang at countless churches and camp meetings. He especially enjoyed singing gospel quartet music.
He was a member of College Wesleyan Church for 60 years and faithfully served both the local church and Wesleyan denomination.
Like all truly humble people, he was unaware of his humility. Serving God and helping others was his nature. His love for Marion led him into politics, where he worked tirelessly for candidates and served on the Grant County Council. He was devoted to his children and also mentored their friends. James and June’s home was a refuge for dozens of family members and foster children.
Survivors include his son, James (Debra) Luttrull, Jr.; daughters, Sandi (Jim) Duecker, Cheryl (Kenny) Ryan, and Ruth (Lary) Moyer, all of Marion; son-in-law, Timothy Harmon, Marion; niece, Connie (Gary) Ott, Marion; grandsons, Andrew (Kate) Luttrull, Corrimal, Australia, Daniel (Danielle) Luttrull, Bismarck, ND, and Peter (Lindsay) Luttrull, Fishers; granddaughters, Heather (Greg) Grindstaff, Monrovia, Misty Moyer, Marion, Amanda (Daniel) Castillo, Marion, and Taylor (Robert) Ursua, Georgetown, TX; 20 great-grandchildren; and brother, Paul, Dale, IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Linda Harmon; granddaughter, Holly Lowe; brother, John; and sisters, Katherine Baresic and Esther Hoffman.
Visitation is from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, June 21, 2024, at College Wesleyan Church, 200 E. 38th St., Marion, IN.
Immediately following visitation, a service to celebrate James’ life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Ethan Linder officiating. Burial will follow at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to College Wesleyan Church.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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