Bessie (Myers) Luttrell was the only child born to Juanita and W.D. Myers in their house at First Street and Main, here in Newton. Her father worked for the Santa Fe Railroad.
Meanwhile, in Caldwell, Kansas Melvin Luther Luttrell was the youngest of four children born to Luther and Laura Luttrell and eventually relocated to Newton where Melvin became a certified welder and worked for the Kansas Gas Service for thirty-one years until his retirement. Melvin was dedicated to his beloved Masonic Lodge, serving as Past Master of Newton Lodge #142 and past Grand Deputy of Kansas, while also contributing as a Past Worthy Patron of the Order of Eastern Star in Newton.
Bessie and Melvin met when attending Newton schools and both graduated from Newton High School. They married on April 8, 1955, and together they enjoyed sixty-nine wonderful years until his death on November 5, 2024.
Their bond was a strong foundation that nurtured their two daughters: Juanita Richstatter, living in Peabody and Janet Emig, residing in Salina.
Bessie and Melvin pursued their work outside their home: Bessie, employed at Axtell Clinic in Medical Records and the State Unemployment Office and Melvin who after retiring from the gas company was employed part-time at Graber’s Ace Hardware for ten years.
Melvin always enjoyed doing woodworking and outdoor work, especially gardening and camping with his family.
In pleasant weather Bessie and Melvin enjoyed their front porch swing and when the “girls” and their families (six grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren) have come for visits.
Bella, a Puggle (crossbreed of a Beagle and a Pug) was introduced to Bessie and Melvin some three years ago and brings affection, companionship and energy to the household.
As Bessie and family reflect on their life with Melvin this December, they remember a man whose legacy was one of love and family and seek to carry his spirit forward in their own lives.