Harold Densil Dutton

Harold Densil Dutton of Cave-in-Rock, Illinois took his final breath on November 11, 2026, in Herrin, Illinois. He was 85 years old. Harold was born in Cave-in-Rock, Illinois on February 11, 1941, to Densel and Lucille (Palmer) Dutton. In 1959, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his country for 2 years. Following his military service and throughout his life journey, he transitioned into several roles that gave him the opportunity to serve his community, most notably, co-owning the best catfish restaurant in Southern Illinois for 36 years. To those who knew him well, however, no acts of service mattered more to Harold than his service as a son, brother, husband, dad, and papaw.

Harold is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Betty Dutton; their three children, Craig (Natalie) Dutton, Jacquelyn Dutton-Fishback, and Carolyn (JJ) Stovall; and grandchildren Nathaniel, Austin, Raven, Caleb (Emily), Braedyn, Tyler, and Dakota. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Larry, Wilma, Terry, Raymond and Glen. Harold’s passing is a devastating loss, and his loved ones can take solace knowing that he gets to drift along the country roads of heaven with his father and best friend, Densel. His warm presence and infectious sense of humor will be deeply missed by those who had the good fortune of having him in their lives.

A celebration of Harold's life will be held at the Baptist Church in Cave-in-Rock on November 15, 2026, at 1 p.m with visitation beginning at 11a.m. The family invites all who knew him to attend and share their favorite memories.