Teresa Lynn Irizarry

Teresa Lynn Irizarry, 64, of Havelock, passed away at 0100 on Saturday, March 6th, 2021 with her family by her side. She was born on October 20, 1956 to the late Paul Dewey Kerr and Dorothy May Kerr in Aurora, Illinois. Teresa met the love of her life, Prudencio Irisarry, while he was serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and while she was serving in the U.S. Navy at Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan. They were married in her mother's home in San Diego, California on May 5, 1978. Following her military service, she completed the apprenticeship program and began working as a Pneumatic Systems Mechanic at FRC East for more than 21 years. She rose through the ranks to obtain the status of becoming the first female test cell operator and achieved the rank of WG-10. Teresa enjoyed spending time outdoors, camping, fishing, boating and traveling. She was a doomsday prepper and firearms enthusiast, obtaining her concealed carry permit and became very proficient with pistols, long guns and shotguns. She also enjoyed darts, bowling, pool, candle-making, cooking and canning. Most of all, she loved being with her family and friends, especially the Spencers, Cooks, Fryers and Severances.

She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years and 10 months, Prudencio "Ira" Irisarry, Jr.; six sons, J.R. Irizarry, Eric Irizarry, Eddie Irizarry and fiancee' Desiree, Isaac Irizarry, Clyde Irizarry and wife Ashley, and Ruben Irizarry; one brother, Timothy Kerr; ten grandchildren, Tony, Ollyonna, Mia, LayLeah, Rey, Nevaeh, Selena, Braylond, Justin, and Serenity; and best friend, Sharlene Spencer.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, March 13th at Cotten Funeral Home. A celebration of Teresa's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 14th at Cotten Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jim Daub officiating. Burial will follow at New Bern Memorial Cemetery with military honors presented by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in her name to the Ronald McDonald House, 529 Moye Boulevard, Greenville, NC 27834.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory, 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28560.