Richard "Dickie" Shelton Tuttle Sr.

Dickie was a proud graduate of New Bern High School, where he excelled as a two-sport athlete. A standout in both football and baseball, he earned All-Conference honors in both sports during his junior and senior years. His senior football season was capped with a selection to the prestigious All-East Team, and on the baseball field, he helped lead his team to a state championship in 1966—an achievement he cherished deeply. In 2013, his high school legacy was honored with his induction into the New Bern High School Hall of Fame.

After high school, Dickie continued his football journey at Elon College for one year. Driven by a deep sense of duty, he then joined the U.S. Army Reserves, serving his country during the Vietnam War era with quiet strength and dignity.

Dickie worked for nearly three decades with Carolina Power & Light, where his dedication and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. But his truest joys were found in the simple pleasures of life—days spent golfing, fishing, grilling out, and enjoying the outdoors. He loved baseball, not only as a player but as a coach, sharing his passion with young athletes through Little League. A loyal Duke fan, he shared countless game-day memories with his beloved son, Rich.

Above all, Dickie was a family man. He was the rock of his family, a devoted husband to his wife of 48 years, Debbie, and a proud father and grandfather. He treasured his time with his grandchildren—Landon, Maverick, and Ensley—who lovingly called him “Pop Pop.” Whether it was a backyard game, a quiet talk, or cheering from the sidelines, he gave his heart fully to those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Tuttle and Helen Rackley, and by his cherished son, Richard S. Tuttle, Jr.

Left to carry on his legacy are his wife, Debbie Tuttle; his daughter, Melissa Tuttle Norman and her husband Roy; his sister, Kathryn MacMoran; and his beloved grandchildren, Landon, Maverick, and Ensley Norman. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends who will remember his warmth, his wit, and his unwavering love for family and community.

A funeral service with Military Honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025 at Cotten Funeral Home with Rev. Danny Rogers officiating. A committal service will follow at Greenleaf Memorial Park Lakeside Chapel. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. at Cotten Funeral Home.

Dickie Tuttle lived a life rooted in faith, love, loyalty, and laughter. His legacy lives on in every life he touched and every memory he helped create. He will be missed beyond measure, but never forgotten.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Richard "Dickie" Shelton Tuttle, Sr.