Dera Jean Haskins

Jean was born on April 16th, 1936 in Vass, NC to Mildred and Stancil Stephenson. She married the love of her life, Robert Nelson Haskins, on August 22nd, 1953. Jean was preceded in death by both of her parents, her loving husband Robert Haskins and their sons Robbie and Tony Haskins. She is survived by her son, Gil Haskins and wife Sandra Haskins; daughter, Donna Haskins Medford and husband David Medford; and brother Richard Elbert Stephenson and wife Betty. She has 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Also, her faithful dog Buddy the Chihuahua.

Jean spent years volunteering at the Salvation Army and Helping Hands stores. Volunteering at both places was perfect for her because she loved helping others but also it gave her great reasons to bring home more brass, Elvis memorabilia, and anything Siamese cat related. She enjoyed many years volunteering with her dear friend Pat Spicer. Jean also had a passion for helping others prepare for job interviews by providing them with professional clothing. Her volunteer time was just one way she cared for those around her.

The Haskins family was blessed and honored to have Jean as their matriarch. She showed her family what it meant to love unconditionally, to care for one another, and to always give more than you take. Jean's porch was a popular hangout spot in New Bern. She always had a chair, "something to drink", and a variety of sweets waiting for you... as long as you didn't mind the chihuahuas and cats. She never knew a stranger and she always had a (sometimes dirty) joke to make you laugh. These laughs are what the Haskins family and New Bern community will carry with them in her memory.

The Haskins family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Dr. Daniel Paul and staff at CarolinaEast Physicians; and the Community Home Care and Hospice team. Services will be held on Tuesday, October 13th, at Cotten Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 12pm-2pm with a service beginning at 2pm. Burial at Greenleaf Memorial will follow directly after.

Arrangements are held by Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory.