Iris Parr

Iris Mary Parr, 92, of Orrtanna, died Monday, February 1st, 2016, peacefully at her home surrounded by her family. Born June 17, 1923 in Leicester, England, she was the only daughter of the late Frederick and Elsie Haddon. Iris was preceded in death by her second husband, William A. Parr, Sr., to whom she was married for 35 years; and her first husband, Elias Tackett, to whom she was married for 28 years.

Iris began her career as a dress designer in England and subsequently entered the Woman’s Land Army during World War II. She came to the United States as a war bride, and together with her husband Elias, owned and operated Tackett’s Pub in Baltimore Highlands, MD. Since she loved working with the public, most of her career was spent in the service industry, finally retiring in 1988. In her retirement, she enjoyed vacations in Myrtle Beach, knitting, crocheting, family holidays, trips to the wineries, and was an avid fan of Engelbert Humperdinck and his music.

She is survived by three daughters, Sandra Unger of Martinsburg, WV, Karen Rebuck of Martinsburg, WV, and Wendy Parr (husband William) of Orrtanna; four stepsons, Roger Parr of Biglerville, Larry Parr (wife Sally) of Waynesboro, William Parr, Jr. of Orrtanna, John Parr (wife Susan) of Orrtanna; one step-daughter, Connie Parr of Orrtanna; 16 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Iris was preceded in death by her daughter, Pamela.

A memorial service to honor Iris’ life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 6, 2016 in the chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA. Pastor Christopher Frye will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.