Larry Donovan Luttrell of Morgantown passed away on June 27, 2023. He was born in Russell County, Ky., on February 7, 1934. He had two brothers and one sister. His brothers, Billy Luttrell and Charlie Luttrell passed away before him. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis Grider. He was married to Fern Luttrell and had two children. His daughter, Michele Daniell, passed away before him. He is survived by his son, Charlie Luttrell. He is also survived by his grandsons, Benjamin Daniell and Joshua Daniell.
Larry was a professional engineer and a professor of structural engineering at West Virginia University. He was a highly regarded member of the Steel Deck Institute, and his groundbreaking work revolutionized the steel deck industry. He mentored legions of engineers, including both his students and his fellow professionals around the world.
Larry was a tinkerer and a builder. He restored classic cars and motorcycles to perfect condition. He was fascinated by his family’s lineage, researching his family tree backwards more than a thousand years. He was always improving his house and property. He built two shops and a large addition to his home, always with his own hands from top to bottom. He also terraced his back yard with retaining walls and added an elaborate fountain system of pools and waterfalls for good measure.
Larry and Fern’s lives will be celebrated at a combined memorial service to be held at the Foundry Church on High Street 1 p.m. on August 12.