Beverly Ann Slayton of Auburn Hills, Michigan, formerly of Hackettstown, New Jersey, passed peacefully on March 3, 2026. Beverly was born in Newton, New Jersey on October 12, 1942. She was 83 years old. She was the daughter of the late Marjory (Kimble) Smith and Dalson Smith. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Slayton, and sister, Judith Melbarde.
Beverly worked at Centenary University in Hackettstown, New Jersey for most of her career until her retirement. She was a devoted parishioner of Trinity United Methodist Church in Hackettstown, New Jersey.
Beverly is survived by her loving children, Thomas Smith and his wife Janet, John Slayton and his wife Christine, and Dawn Chirichello and her husband James. Beverly is also survived by her beloved sister, Sally Gibbs, grandchildren, Rebecca, Jessica, Christa and Kelly, as well as great grandchildren, Robert and Hannah, and many dear nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Those who knew Beverly will remember her for her generous heart, her welcoming smile, and the grace with which she faced life’s challenges. She loved football, especially the Miami Dolphins and most recently the Detroit Lions. Beverly was also a lifelong fan of Elvis Presley and had quite a collection of Elvis memorabilia. She also loved to play Bingo. Beverly also dedicated a substantial portion of her time caring for family members in need. There was nothing that she would not do for her family and friends. Beverly leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.
The viewing will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 10:00am – 12:00 noon with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 noon at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840. The burial will be held at Pequest Union Cemetery immediately following the funeral service. All who loved her are welcome to attend and celebrate her wonderful life.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown NJ 07840. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.cochranfuneral.com/
1 Condolence for Slayton, Beverly Ann
Condolence(1)
Cousin Ginny and Norman says
March 18, 2026 at 4:12 amSally, Tom, John, Dawn, and Families. May your memories of happy times together bring you comfort. We will remember Beverly as a fun loving and friendly person, who loved her family. We are so happy to have had the opportunity to visit her in Michigan a little over a year ago. I always had many enjoyable times visiting with the Smith family over the years whenever I came home to visit family in New Jersey. My children will always remember her as the Bon Jovi cousin. She will be missed.