Paul Howard Ottey

Paul H. Ottey, 78, of New Bern, NC, passed away on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Born September 28, 1943 in Philadelphia, PA, he spent 45 years serving his country on active duty and then as a civil servant for the U.S. Navy.

Paul joined the Navy in January 1961, traveling the country and the world for more than 20 years. During that time, he served three tours in Vietnam and was stationed on numerous aircraft carriers, including the USS Kitty Hawk (CV63), USS Constellation (CV64) and the USS John F. Kennedy (CV67). His family loved to receive postcards from the many exotic ports he would visit.

After retiring from active duty in August 1982, Paul served another 20 years as a civil servant working in purchasing and inventory control for the Navy. Being a “crusty old chief,” as he liked to be called, was a genuine benefit in his work, as he received many awards and commendations for reducing costs and improving efficiency during his career at Naval Inventory Control Point (NAVICP) in Philadelphia and later at Marine Corp Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point. He retired in 2006, and spent his time as a child advocate for the N.C. Guardian ad Litem program, as a volunteer at the Craven County Senior Center, and as a docent at the Bank of the Arts. He also enjoyed woodworking in his garage and spending time with his grandchildren.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Janet Ottey; his children, Dawn Petersen (Jerry), Audra Albert (John), Toni Towe (Mike), Krista Beamish (Mark), and Greg Ottey; his grandchildren, Mikey (Vanessa), Alex, Kalohe, Keegan, Abbi, and Kenna; his great-grandchildren, Coltyn, Nina, and Keanu; his brother, Bill Ottey (Kathy); sister-in-law, Patti Ottey; and several special nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Danielle Towe; his brother, Lou Ottey, his parents, Paul and Gertrude Ottey; and longtime family friends Frank and Pat Carroll.

A Memorial Service will be held for Paul on Thursday, April 7, at 1 p.m. at the Fellowship Chapel aboard MCAS Cherry Point. Please enter the base at the main gate at 100 Roosevelt Blvd, Havelock, for a pass and you will be directed to the chapel. His remains will be buried at sea by the Navy at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Disabled American Veterans to support veterans and their families at www. dav.org, or to the charity of your choice.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Paul H. Ottey.