Ira Lee Edgerton Jr.

A proud American, Ira honorably served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Navy. During his Navy career, he served on the U.S.S. Sperry, U.S.S. Intrepid, U.S.S. Halfbeak, U.S.S. Hardhead, U.S.S. Picuda, U.S.S. T.J. Gary, and U.S.S. Hunley. Ira retired from the Navy on September 30, 1975, and went to Craven Community College to get his Electrical Contractors license and was also hired on with the North Carolina Ferry System. Ira was the first ever to be hired as a marine electrician for the state of North Carolina, working on ferries and boats in the shipyard. While working for the Ferry System, Ira started his own business as an Electrician (Edgerton Electric). Ira was a dedicated hard worker, and with his passion for serving others, quickly became one of the most depended upon electricians in Pamlico County. For nearly 30 years, Ira proudly served his local community with his quality work. At age 65, Ira retired from the ferry system, but his love for the sea brought him back to work on the Outer banks ferry part time for another 10 years. When he officially retired, Ira and Diana enjoyed frequent visits with family and attending reunions for the various ships he served on.

Ira is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Diana Edgerton; his son Ethan and daughter-in-law Jeanette Edgerton, his daughter Karen and son-in-law Samuel Bass; his grandchildren Lauren, Olivia, Garrett, Maria, Monica, and Carla; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sisters Emma Black and Nellie Kidd.

As the patriarch of his family, Ira was deeply loved and will be sincerely missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who are proud of the legacy he left.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or raise a Budweiser in an honorary toast to Ira.