Iris Petitfils Kern

Iris Petitfils Kern passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the age of 95. She was born in New Orleans Louisiana on September 26, 1928, to the late, Earl George Petitfils and the late, Amy Jackson Petitfils.

She leaves behind her husband of 75 years, Melvin Lawrence Kern, Jr. Iris met Melvin while working at Woolworths on Canal St. They exchanged vows on July 23, 1949. They lived in many places throughout the south before moving back home to New Orleans in 1973. Iris and Melvin loved to dance. They were members of several social clubs and a Mardi Gras society.

Iris also leaves behind two children: Lawrence “Larry” Kern (Judy) and Karen Kern Hermann, 4 grandchildren: Shaun Christopher Kern (Holly), Ashley Elizabeth Kern (Kit), Hilmer Paul Hermann III (Crystal), and Andrew Thomas Hermann (Allison), along with 12 great grandchildren.

Iris worked throughout her life in office administration. She was dedicated to her family and kept many New Orleans traditions alive. One of her many meal specialties was a good ol’ Nawlins’ Roast Beef Po’boy. She had a lifelong love for card games and spent countless hours playing cards with her grandchildren and friends.

She will be missed by all her loved ones.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the memorial services on Friday, April 12, 2024, at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Dive, Metairie, Louisiana 70001. Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm. A service will begin at 2:00 pm, with an inurnment to follow thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that all donations be made in memory of Iris to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
 

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