Emmitt Napier
December 22, 2022
Emmitt Harold Napier
1945-2022
Survived by his wife Kathy; children Natalie (Lori Leach), Nicole (Dave Johnson), Jason (Katie Lopez), and Adam; siblings Monajo Napier and Johnny (Betty) Everett and many brothers/sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. On Thursday, December 22, 2022, Emmitt Napier passed away after battling heart disease.
Born to Emmett Harvey and Stella Blanche Napier, Emmitt grew up in a coal mining camp in Harlan Kentucky until the age of 18 when he enlisted in the Air Force. Emmitt proudly served his country for 8 years before being honorably discharged and becoming an auctioneer. He became a legend in his field – working for the largest auctioneering company in the world for close to 40 years. Always the entertainer, Emmitt loved to put on a show while auctioneering, giving nicknames to his colleagues and constantly joking with everyone to add to the fun atmosphere. Emmitt served twice as the Grand Master in the Masons in the Champaign lodge in Illinois. As a member of the Shriners, he was appointed hospital chairman whose duty was to provide transportation for the children to the hospital. He was a talented ballroom dancer and loved playing the guitar and organ. Emmitt adored his family and had a special way of attracting people to him with his wonderful sense of humor. He was a hard-working entrepreneur and had many businesses over the years including Napier Motor Company, Napier Enterprises and Napier Furniture.
He was also passionate about taking care of people. He provided his auctioneering services for fund raising events for the local Boys and Girls Club and helped support families in need by providing meals and clothing during the holiday season. Whether on the lanai in Nassau, in the garage at the house, or around the kitchen table, he made everyone feel comfortable. He loved “holding court” with neighbors who would gather to discuss and “solve” all the world’s problems. 2020 brought with it a mid-pandemic move to The Villages for golf, gators, and great times with new friends. He truly enjoyed teaching both the etiquette and technique of golf to his wife, heading to participate in bingo at the rec center, and being a part of the security team at church. Emmitt’s faith strengthened with his church community, and he knew no greater love than that of his Lord and Savior.
Though his time here was shorter than any would have wanted, we can rest easy knowing that he is at peace and free of earthly woes.
Please contact the Family or First Baptist Church the Villages for information on the Celebration of Life and luncheon following service.
Forever in our hearts.
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Dear Kathy,
Sorry to hear about Emmitt, I knew he was having some rough times. You and your family are in my prayers.
Do you live in Florida now? I thought maybe we could get together but if you are in Florida that might me a little far to go for lunch.
Love you kiddo. Keep in touch please. your cuz, Sue
Emmit and I became close friends while attending munitions training Lowry AFB Colorado 1969. We both worked security at Lakeside amusement park, a city within Denver Colorado. Upon completion of our training, we were assigned to the 388th Combat Support Group at Tague S. Korea. After our tour in Korea we both went our separate ways as most friends do in the military. Several years later I found Emmit in Kansas City working as an auctioneer at the Kansas City Auto Auction where we again hooked up for lunch reminiscing our past and our current events. I moved to San Antonio continuing my AF career and lost contact with Emmit though I thought of him often. Thinking of him today I found discovered he had passed. My condolences to his family.