New Bern, NC - Polito - Betty Hockey, RN, 94, passed away on June 2, 2026. She was born in 1932, in Johnstown, Pa., to the late Joseph and Elizabeth (Kristofco) Hockey.

Leaving behind to honor and cherish Betty's life and legacy are her children, Joseph R. Polito, MD (Dr. Mary); Nancy Fogle, RN (Don); Ronald Polito (Jackie); Marc Polito (Judy); and Amy Henderson (Jim); grandchildren, Sara, Catherine, Dominick, Lana, Jessica, Kyle, Aria, Jaeger, and Caden; great-grandchildren, Gianna and Aurelio; and many loving family members.

Betty was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 62 years, Lt. Col. Joseph P. Polito, USAF, Retired, and her sister, Alice (Hockey) Mayer.

Betty will be remembered for her beautiful smile and warm heart. Following her love of helping others, Betty graduated as an RN from the Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital diploma nursing program. Betty's specialty was Labor and Delivery, helping to bring many babies into the world. Her husband, Joe, joined the USAF, whisking her off to new cities, states, and countries around the globe. Betty lived in France, Okinawa, and Italy. Betty and Joe were also avid cruisers, especially to the Caribbean. She was an expert at multitasking even before that became a "buzzword." Raising 5 children, who were involved in all sorts of activities, working, taking exotic vacations, and learning to cook specialty dishes kept Betty busy. Even after becoming an empty nester and retiring from nursing, Betty continued to stay active at Sun City Hilton Head, as well as in her assisted living apartment in New Bern, N.C. She was a big winner at bingo, loved to read, make crafts, and play games. Betty was the sweetest person and will be missed by so many.

The family will receive visitors on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cotten Funeral Home. Betty will be laid to rest with her husband, Joseph, at Arlington National Cemetery once services have been scheduled.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Betty Hockey Polito.