Roger Wilson Naylor

Roger Wilson Naylor, age 83 of Chapel Hill, NC passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Roger was born on January 25, 1943, in Elkton, MD, the son of the late James Wilson Naylor and the late Genevieve Maxine (Allender) Naylor.

Roger earned a Bachelor of Science from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green and a Master of Arts in Education from Murray State University in Murray, KY. He then proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard an aircraft carrier. Following his military service, he dedicated his career to education as a teacher and coach. An adventurous spirit, Roger had an enduring love of travel. Every year, as soon as the school year ended, he would set off to explore new places making the most of his summer break before returning home in time for the beginning of the new school year. His curiosity about the world and eagerness to experience new cultures created a lifetime of treasured memories.

Roger was also a passionate sports enthusiast. He faithfully cheered for the Baltimore Ravens and University of Maryland athletics, especially basketball and football. In his adopted hometown of Chapel Hill, he had to find time for UNC and Duke basketball! Roger also enjoyed following and supporting women’s sports, appreciating the talent, dedication, and growth of female athletes. Roger had a love of statistics and collected those stats across all sports with obscure women’s stats a particular favorite.

Roger will be remembered for his adventurous nature, his commitment to education, his love of sports, and his genuine interest in the world around him.

Roger is survived by his sister, Dorothy Davis of Cary, NC. In addition to his parents, Roger is preceded in death by his twin brother, James A. Naylor.

A graveside service for Roger will be held at Elkton Cemetery, Howard Street, Elkton, MD 21921, on a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Roger’s memory may be made to the “PetSmart Charities” or “Alley Cat Allies” and sent in care of R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A., 259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921.