Wadesboro, NC – June 17, 2024

Reese Martin Dutton, born on May 27, 1928, in Anson County, North Carolina, led a life marked by profound love for his family, a passion for photography, and a dedication to teaching and community service. As the youngest of thirteen children, Dutton grew up on a 42-acre farm in the Long Pine Community, assuming responsibilities early on and shaping a future filled with impactful choices.

In 1952, Reese Dutton heard the life-changing words, “You have been drafted.” The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, and the United States officially entered the conflict on June 27, 1950. Serving with honor, Dutton was discharged after approximately eighteen months. Upon his return, he reunited with his bride, Margaret Reynolds Henry, whom he married in 1950. The couple had two children, Dwight and Maresa. Dwight passed away in May 2023, a loss that profoundly affected the family.   

Reese’s first job post-graduation from Deep Creek School in 1945 was with Ballet Hosiery Mill. However, his career took a significant turn when he pursued teaching. Dutton, certified by North Carolina State University, taught photography and graphics communications at Bowman Sr. High School. His passion for teaching was evident, with Maresa fondly recalling, “He loved teaching; in fact, his classrooms frequently became sessions of guidance.”

Dutton began his career in the newspaper industry as a reporter and photographer for “The Richmond County Daily Journal.” He also worked with “The Messenger & Intelligencer” and “The Anson Record.”

Driven by necessity he mastered every aspect of the business, realizing “The more things you knew how to do, the more you would get paid.”  Despite this pragmatic start, he excelled, winning the North Carolina Press Association First Place Press Award for Feature Writing and an Honorable Mention for Spot News Photography. Being a reporter and photographer exposed Mr. Dutton to his sideline photography work, which soon became a passion. He photographed weddings from Virginia to Georgia, supplementing the family budget.

His role in education extended beyond the classroom. Initially hired as the communications director for the school system, he later transitioned to teaching when the federally funded position ended. Advocating for a darkroom at the school, he enhanced the photography curriculum, further nurturing his students’ skills and passions.

Reese’s life was deeply intertwined with community service. He co-founded the Anson County Rescue Squad, converting a 1947 Pontiac station wagon into an ambulance and even served as a diver. This dedication to service was not without its challenges, including long waits for coroners at tragic scenes.

Day trips to the Pee Dee River to go fishing with a buddy were among his favorite pastimes. Family trips to the beach for vacations were special for the family. His daughter Maresa reminisced, “There was no place dad and mom went that Dwight and I were left behind. Dad had a hierarchy of priorities: God first, then family, then everything else.”

Throughout his life, Reese gracefully assumed the role of a nurturer. He cared for his mother and his ailing wife, Margaret, for whom he took an early retirement in 1991 to become her primary caregiver. While caring for his wife Margaret, he also cared for two of his three grandchildren.

Dutton remained the primary caregiver for Margaret for fifteen years until she passed away in 2005.

Reflecting on his life, Reese said, “I have no regrets.” His choices were always made with thoughtfulness and a focus on his family’s well-being. As Maresa aptly put it, “Dad spent most of his life being a nurturer to his mother, his bride when she became ill, and his students.”

At 96 years old, Reese Dutton’s legacy is one of unwavering love, service, and dedication. His life story, rich with personal and professional achievements, remains an inspiration to all who know him.