Meta Naylor

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Meta Naylor (Retsch).  Meta passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026 in Azalea, Oregon at the age of 80.

Meta was born on March 5, 1945 in Trebgast, Germany to Adam and Alma Retsch.  She was the youngest of 4 children growing up in Bindlach, Germany.  One of her favorite sports was table tennis which she was a champion at in high school; she was known for her unbeatable serve.

Meta met her late husband,  Robert W Naylor, in Bindlach, while he was stationed at the Christensen Barracks.  They wed on January 26, 1963 in Bindlach, Germany.

Meta and Robert started their married life in Clear Lake, South Dakota.  In March 1964, their daughter, Tina was born.  They moved to Pasadena, California later that year.  In January 1966 their son Robert Jr. (Bobby) was born.  They spent the next 8 years in California.  In March 1973 they moved to Gold Hill, Oregon.  There Meta started packing fruit for Del Rio in Gold Hill.  The following year she was working for Bear Creek Corporation (aka Harry & David).  She worked for Bear Creek Corp for 32 years before retiring.

In January 2017, she lost her husband of 54 years to cancer.

Meta lived a very active and independent life until January 2026 when she suffered a major stroke.  She was able to come home and pass peacefully with her family surrounding her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings (Paul, Helmutt and Imgard), and her husband.  She leaves behind her daughter, Tina Whitley, and son, Bobby Naylor.  Grandchildren Reese Whitley (Kiesha), Jessica Culp (Mark), Timothy Whitley, Michelle Jarrett (Michael) and 11 great grandchildren. 

A celebration of life is planned for a later date.

Care of Meta was with Mountain View Memmorial Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Meta Naylor, please visit our floral store.