January 17, 2026, 81, Kinston – Betty Joe Cumby Kotcho Naylor, 81, passed away peacefully in the early hours of January 17, 2026, while being cared for in her daughter’s home. Betty was born in Pineville, West Virginia to the late Clarence Lee Cumby and Garnett Borders Cumby on March 14, 1944. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husbands, Robert Eugene Kotcho and David Franklin Naylor; her son-in-law, Scott Slaughter; her great-grandchild, Braxton Ruby; and her sisters, Shirley Avery and Alice Roseberry.
Spending many years working in the automotive industry, Betty served as the office manager in a dealership in Ohio before relocating to Kinston. Here, she worked for a short time in realty and continued her employment as office manager with Sale Ford until her retirement.
A faithful member of Bethel Free Will Baptist Church, Betty enjoyed serving her Lord through the many ministries of the church, especially as a member of the ladies’ visitation group for as long as her health allowed.
Around her home, Betty found great joy working in her flowers. She was known as an exceptional cook and had a love for traveling, especially anywhere near the water, though she was just as content enjoying the peace and quiet of her home.
A memorial service to honor Betty’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Rouse Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the service.
Betty is survived by her son, Mel Ruby and wife Kellie; daughter, Karley Slaughter; grandchildren, Mason Ruby and wife, Janna, Markie Ruby Skaggs and husband, Austin, Abby Jo Slaughter, Mary Jane Slaughter, Kayla Slaughter, Dixie Lovelace, and Jessica Cook; great-grandchildren, Brooklynn, Adalynn, Lennox; a soon-to-arrive great-grandchild, Ember; and her step-daughter, Beth Naylor.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Free Will Baptist Church.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
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