Elizabeth “Betty” Luton

In Loving Memory of Betty Flynn Luton

Elizabeth Jane Flynn Luton, affectionately known as “Grandma Cookie,” passed away on October 3, 2025, at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland. She was 91 years old. 

Born in Union City, New Jersey, to Marie and James Flynn, Betty grew up surrounded by the spirited energy of her siblings and one hundred and one first cousins. A child of the depression and of a father who had steady work as an electrician, Betty’s home was often host to extended family and neighborhood children whose parents knew they’d find warmth and a meal at the Flynn’s. Her mother was an excellent seamstress, but struggled to pass on her talent to Betty, who was left-handed. Grandma Flynn, Betty’s paternal grandmother, was an excellent baker. Short on standard baking supplies during an era of want, Grandma Flynn developed creative methods for baking her locally-beloved pies. Betty cultivated her skill for baking in that kitchen in Union City, and carried it all the way through her later years. Those early days laid the foundation for a life defined by resilience, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

In 1955, Betty married George Kerr Luton, Jr., beginning a partnership that would span decades and bless them with two daughters—Kathleen Luton and Melissa Luton. Their home was filled with laughter, love and homemade meals, often Italian cuisine that she had perfected. 

Betty spent most of her adult life in Hackensack, NJ, where she became a dependable fixture in her community. Her work ethic was unmatched, and she remained employed outside the home until the age of 80, a testament to her strength, independence, and commitment to purpose. She volunteered for many years, preparing meals for the displaced. She also attended mass daily. Betty enjoyed time with her friends, including her closest gals, Audrey, Irene and Rose Marie.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by her daughters Kathleen and Melissa, her six grandchildren—Stephanie Klein, Adam Klein, Scott R. Gowe, Samantha Perdon, Megan Auriemma, and foster grandson Jeremy Brickey—and six great grandchildren—Kinsley, Colson, and Kamryn Auriemma; Madelyn, and Selena Perdon; and foster great-grandson, Thorvald Brickey. Each of them carries forward her dutiful spirit, classic Grandma Cookie stories, and her signature warmth.

A funeral mass will be held in her honor on October 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Church in Lodi, NJ, where family and friends will gather to celebrate a life well-lived and deeply loved. Betty’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her—in every batch of cookies baked, every jar of strawberry jam picked and canned, every act of quiet strength, and every moment of joy shared around the family table.