Harold "Harry" P. Kent

Harold "Harry" P. Kent, 77, of New Bern, peacefully passed away on Friday, June 24, 2016 at CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern. Harry was an only child, so he turned to books early on for his constant companion. As a voracious reader, he also became an amazing story teller on any subject that was discussed. He could share jokes at any given moment, with any age group, and keep them wanting more. His heart was huge for the broken hearted. His warm, secure hugs, made you feel like you were not alone. He had a fierce devotion to the ones he loved, and would do anything to “go to war for you”. His love was deep and it was real. He would feed anyone. Harry Kent was a true Renaissance man. He loved history, scuba diving, stain glass work, painting, and music when he wasn't reading. Harry learned to become an excellent marksman when he was just a wee little guy. This would serve him well for protection, hunting in Nova Scotia, or for hitting the bull’s eye in target practice even in his later years. Having no money for college, he went through a GE apprenticeship program, and ended up with the equivalent of a mechanical engineering certification. Harry was an engineer for 35 years, while running his family farm. When Harry was in his 50’s, he went back to school to become an RN, graduating with top honors in his class. His medical career was cut short when he had to have emergency surgery for a bowel blockage in 1997. This situation started the acute health problems that he has experienced for the past 19 years. Harry would often say that he was “tougher than a boiled owl”, and indeed he cheated death many times over. Anyone who ever met Harry would never forget him. He loved Jesus, and was baptized in the ocean with a three-pelican “fly over”. Harry met Cheryl and they married in 2008. They had an amazing, soulfulness that most people don’t find in a lifetime. There was no doubt of the love that was shared. Rarely would you see one without the other. A Celebration of Harry’s Life will be held 11:00 am, Saturday, July 9, 2016 at Crossroads Baptist Church, Hwy. 70, New Bern. Please wear bright colored Aloha clothing to his celebration. In lieu of flowers, please bring a single, favorite flower of your choice. Donations in memory of Harry can be made to Crossroads Baptist Church or RCS (Religious Community Service), New Bern, NC. Harry is survived by the love of his life, Cheryl,and three sons: Austin Fuller of Charlotte, NC, Dr. Tyler Fuller (Taylor) of Ft. Wright, Kentucky, Clay Fuller of Wilmington, NC, and two daughters: Christie DiMarzio ( James) of Maine, Jennifer Kent of Montana, two grandchildren, a great grandchild and numerous friends he considered family.