Dennis Rollan Dutton

Obituary – Dennis Rollan Dutton

September 13, 1958 – December 18, 2025

Dennis Dutton leaves an indelible impression on all who loved him and on everyone fortunate enough to know him. With his signature cabbie hat and infectious smile, Dennis had a remarkable way of connecting with people and making everyone feel valued, seen, and loved.

Dennis was born in Marion, Virginia, to Ralph Dutton and Linda Blevins Dutton. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Stephanie Dutton; his children, Desiree Wilson (Jared Wilson), Derek Dutton (Julija Dutton), and Grace Dutton; his grandchildren Benjamin, Alex, and Cooper Wilson, and Noah and Zofijia Dutton; his stepmother, Sandra Campbell; his siblings Kenny Rose (Shirley Burton), Suzan Moore (Scott Mullins), John Dutton, and Ginger Dutton Gardner; and his former wife and friend, Denise Jarvis. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Betty Dutton Nave.

After graduating from Wilkes Central High School in 1976, Dennis answered a call bigger than himself and proudly served his country in the US Army. It was during his Army years that he earned his private pilot certificate–following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a pilot. After the Army, he pursued his new love of flying with everything he had, earning his BS in Aeronautical Engineering and his MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Then came the Air Force, where he continued to serve his country, flying C-5s and KC-10s, and serving in Desert Storm. He went on to fly for over 30 years with Delta Air Lines, while continuing to serve as a Major in the Air Force Reserves.

Dennis rarely boasted about his many accomplishments, but those who knew him understood the pride and dedication he carried into every flight. What mattered most to him were never the awards, commendations, or titles he earned. For Dennis, what mattered were the people he met and the experiences he shared along the way (notably on the unforgettable trip to London and Paris with his family to celebrate his career at Delta). For Dennis, flying was never a job. It was a calling, something he poured his heart into for the rest of his life, and eventually, a legacy he would pass on to his son.

Known affectionately as "Den-man," "Pops," "Brother," or "Cutie," Dennis valued family above all else. He and Stephanie were true partners in every sense-building a life filled with love, laughter, and wholehearted devotion. Dennis was the ultimate protector, always showing up for those he loved with steady reassurance, encouragement, and unwavering commitment.

Adventurous by nature, Dennis traveled the world with his family, embracing cultures in New Zealand, South America, Asia, and Australia. He loved hiking, running marathons, and soaking in the beauty of nature, always turning every experience into a cherished memory. He had a knack for making every adventure fun and unforgettable.

To say Dennis was a "good man" hardly scratches the surface. He could light up a room the moment he walked in, winning people over instantly with his warmth, quick wit, and that irresistible smile. His legendary "Big Den" hugs wrapped you in comfort, safety, and a love you could feel. He mentored countless young people through encouragement and relentless enthusiasm.

Described as "one of a kind", Dennis prided himself on always finding "a really good deal". His love of bluegrass music, his dogs, Seinfeld humor, exuberant storytelling, and nostalgic stops at the Dip Dog Stand were just part of his charm.

More than anything, Dennis will be remembered for his generous spirit, his laughter, his tremendous heart, and the extraordinary way he made everyone feel. He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, warmth, connection, and a life lived fully and joyfully. Those who loved him will carry his voice, his stories, his hugs, and his love in their hearts always.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ebenezer Christian Children's home, Ebenezerfamily.org/donate or to a memorial aviation scholarship in honor of Dennis and Jack Dutton that is currently being established at Auburn University.