Kerry Lou Hancock

Kerry Lou Hancock, 79, of New Bern, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, at CarolinaEast Medical Center. Born on December 16, 1946, in Goose Creek, Pamlico County, North Carolina, Kerry weighed just 5 pounds at birth and entered the world at home, the son of Polly and Amos Hancock.

At the age of 17, Kerry answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War. He went on to serve a distinguished 20-year military career — ten years of active duty followed by ten years with the National Guard — retiring in 1982 as a Sergeant First Class (SFC-E7). Following his honorable discharge, Kerry made his way to Jacksonville, Florida, where he joined the National Guard. Among his most cherished memories was an epic, once-in-a-lifetime road trip from Anchorage, Alaska to Jacksonville, Florida, completed in just five days.

On June 3, 1978, Kerry married the love of his life, Denise, beginning a partnership that would span nearly 48 cherished years. After his military service, he drove a semi-truck for a time before beginning his civil service career in 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. In 1996, Kerry and Denise made their home in New Bern, where he continued his career at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point as an Aircraft Electrician until his retirement in 2005.

Kerry was a member of Spring Garden Baptist Church and a proud member of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 886, in New Bern. He found great joy in hunting, fishing, and being outdoors. Those who knew Kerry well knew of his legendary love for "starting" projects — ensuring there was always something in progress at home. Above all, Kerry was a man of generous spirit, always willing to lend a hand and, as those closest to him would say, would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

Kerry is survived by his dear wife, Denise Hancock; three sons, Michael Hancock (Dana) of Fuquay-Varina, NC, David Hancock (Sabrina) of Garner, NC, and Matthew Hancock of New Bern, NC; three sisters, Ellen Bayne of Pine Level, NC, Carol Hardison (Jim) of Fremont, NC, and Nancy Hodges (Joe) of Chocowinity, NC; three grandsons, Aydan, Sawyer, and Lincoln; his dog Charlie who was a constant companion; and many beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Polly Hancock, and his brothers, Don and Al Hancock.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spring Garden Baptist Church, 650 Spring Garden Road, New Bern, NC 28562.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Kerry Lou Hancock.