David Lutes

David “Buddy” William Lutes left his earthly body for his heavenly home on July 1, 2023. He was born in Selma, Alabama, and celebrated his 88th birthday this year. He lived the last 53 years in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Funeral services will be held at Memory Garden Chapel, 2200 Skyland Blvd. East, Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Visitation will be Thursday, July 6th from 7-8:00 p.m. and funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. July 7th with a graveside service immediately following the funeral. Family visitation will be 30 minutes before each service.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Grace Lutes, and his sister, Betty Spencer. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Ruth Lutes, three children – Angelia Baldwin (Matthew), Franklin Lutes (Audra), and Denise Jones (Steve).

David was blessed with four grandchildren: Caleb and Jadon Baldwin, Faith Standifer and Forrest Jones and eight step-grandchildren: Jade, Tara and Jacob Willoughby and William Rainey; Wesley, Darin, Jon Thomas and Nathan Jones. Immediate family includes two nieces, Charlain Fondren and Gay Davis, and their respective families.

Anyone that knew David knew that he was passionate about many things. He was loving, supportive and dedicated to his family. He served faithfully in the Nazarene church all of his life in many functions, including Caravan leader, youth leader, Sunday school teacher, treasurer, Sunday school superintendent, board member and member of the church choir. His life was a model of faith, compassion, service, responsibility and propriety. His love for fishing was apparent to everyone he met! The end-of-summer olive tree and pomegranate harvest was one of his favorite times of the year. He enjoyed watching football year round – especially when the University of Alabama was playing! David and Ruth attended Frost Bridge Camp Meeting every year, and David always managed to get in some fishing at the various ponds and creeks around the campground. One of his ministries was completing income tax returns. So many people, especially ministers, churches and camp meetings, depended on David each year.

Although he started out in accounting, he developed an interest in computers as soon as they came onto the scene. At B.F. Goodrich he worked his way up to Computer Programmer Analyst and retired after 30 years of service.

David’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. William Hill, his cardiologist who cared for him for many years and through multiple surgeries and procedures. Also thanks to Dr. Kevin Katona, his family doctor, who has overseen his general health during the last several years.

Those wishing to make a donation in honor of David’s life may make a contribution to Frost Bridge Camp Meeting, Attn: Denise Jones, Treasurer, 11242 Crocker Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemoryChapelFuneralHome.com for the Lutes family.