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George Napper Obituary
Napper was named chief of police in 1978 and served until 1982, when he became Atlanta's director of public safety.
Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms issued a statement Saturday, calling Napper a "brilliant teacher and leader" who "broke barriers and embodied the progress of our city during a long and distinguished career with the Atlanta Police Department."
"The City of Atlanta is thankful for the service and commitment of Chief George Napper and we offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones," the mayor said.
Atlanta police are honoring him by wearing mourning bands on their badges.
Read more about George Napper on ajc.com
Memories and Condolences
for George Napper
81 Entries
Nathan Davis, Jr.
March 4, 2024
Thanks a Million for the Opportunity. It changed Our Lives. Nathan and Jackie Davis.
Dr. Linda Woods Newman '77
March 2, 2024
I was a Sociology major at Spelman College '75 and took my Criminology class from Dr. Napper. He also held sessions on things we, as females could do to keep us safe on and off campus. He cared and he made a difference in our lives. He will always be remembered. Rest well because you were a good and faithful servant!
Dr. Linda Woods Newman '77
Brandy McCurry
July 11, 2022
I know I didn't know you but thank you for all the services you did provide for our country
Margaret Lowe
August 20, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the Napper family and everyone who George touched doing his remarkable life. Rest well friend.
Ousmane Diop
August 8, 2021
I am UC Berkeley class of 1962 graduate, so I was with my friend George on the Berkeley campus(1961-1966).
Residing in Abidjan west Africa, I am just now reading about the passing away of my buddy. My heartfelt condolences to the family
Mrs. Richardean Golden Anderson
November 6, 2020
Dr. George Napper, A man of character, that believed strongly in Love, Family, Community and doing the right things toward and for others.
Dr. Napper lived a selfless life. Putting others first. He cherished giving back to his community and wanting to make sure, others were comforted.
He honored and cherished friendship with so many. Dr. Napper is one of the founding members of Georgia’s first charter school for young men , Fulton Leadership Academy, approved by State Department of Georgia in 2009. He named the school. The founding members wanted to name the school after him; because of his fortitude, leadership and love for making sure we nurtured and provide guidance for young men of color, especially in our community.
Dr. Napper contributed financial every month to FLA from the beginning to the day he slept.
Thank You, Dr. George Napper, You deposited so much love into the universe to sustain us for hundreds of years. You reached out beyond yourself and planted so many “seeds” of Love, Encouragement, and kindness!!! Thank You, we will love You, forever. FLA young men and families say “Thank You, Dr. George Napper!”
Love You!!
Georgia Macon
October 29, 2020
He was a good friend with a great sense of humor and always concerned about others. He loved his wife, children and other family members with a passion. May God bless his family and may he Rest In Peace.
jennie trotter
October 28, 2020
He was a Great man & true to his convictions .I missed seeing him during his illness but will always remember his commitment to the youth. Rest in Peace George! All my love & condolences to Dee & family.
Paul Ogden
October 22, 2020
Just read about Chief Napper in the Auburn Journal (local Auburn newspaper in Auburn, CA where he grew up). Never knew about him until now. Auburn should be very proud.
Eugene Smith
October 20, 2020
My Condolences go out to the family.
Willie C. Bolton
October 20, 2020
A GREAT FRIEND, Condolences to the Family.
Cerelyn Davis
October 20, 2020
Chief George Napper was a 'Giant' to many of us beginning our careers as police officers in Atlanta... I know he was just that to me. He set an example of leadership that I tried hard to absorb and emulate throughout my career. We were so proud of him... the consummate professional, strong but a kind servant leader. Today, as a sitting Chief myself, I am reminded of the shoulders I stand on by the legacy of this giant... Chief George Napper. Prayers and sincere condolences to the Napper family and all who are impacted by this loss. Chief Cerelyn 'CJ' Davis, Durham NC Police Department
spencer giles
October 20, 2020
For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much have been committed of him they will ask the more. Luke 12:48 NKJV. I did not have the opportunity to meet Founder Napper personally, but I do know that he has done great things for the police department and the community. my condolences to the Napper family. I am a member of the Maryland Chapter of NOBLE
Joseph H. “Jack” Lumpkin, Sr.
October 20, 2020
A great leader and mentor!
Hubert Bell
October 20, 2020
George was a true professional. He led by example and I appreciate all he did for me and countless others. I am grateful to have been able to watch him grow and not afraid to take others with him. We thank him also for his dedication, leadership. and commitment to NOBLE. My sincere condolences to his family.
Rest In Peace my Brother.
Tonya Austin
October 19, 2020
I am eternally grateful for the opportunity, the hands on mentoring, the honest conversations, guidance and love that you gave me. To say that you were an inspiration would minimize the real impact you have made in my life. THANK YOU Dr. George Napper. I have been blessed by your kindness and your courage.
THANK YOU, Napper family for sharing this amazing man with me and so many others.
~ Tonya Austin
Gary Hollmer
October 17, 2020
Dr. Napper’s loss to the world! I am proud that he and I were good friends going through our teen years. My regards to his family and friends. His poetry book that he sent me is a special possession!
Rosie Robinson
October 14, 2020
Dr Napper demonstrated excellent leadership and mentorship in his entire career and Life. Thank You for your “greatness”
Herman Griner
October 11, 2020
As angels has sung Chief Napper to his heavenly rest, Major Herman Griner and family would like to send prayers and condolences to the Napper family.
douglas davidson
October 9, 2020
Brother Napper was a close and dear friend whom I met as a fellow graduate student at the University of California/Berkeley in 1968. He and I shared many long, serious conversations on the impact and significance of the the Civil Rights Movement, Black Power Movement, and Black Studies Movement which we participated in during our tenure at Berkeley. George welcomed me into his family and friends as I was a new student to California from the midwest. He was a warm, open, friendly man who expressed genuine interest in my well-being and contributed to my ability to adjust to and thrive in a new environment. We discovered that we shared many similar interests including our enjoyment of basketball. I joined his team in a local recreational league. We also discussed the unique challenges of assisting our Mothers in raising younger siblings. He was a very compassionate , empathetic, and loyal friend. I will always cherish the time we shared and the great memories we created. May he rest in Divine Peace. No words can heal or reduce the pain of great loss to a loving family. However, i send my heartfelt condolences to his beautiful wife --Miss Chee-- and his children and Grandchildren. Wishing you peace , love, and continued blessings.
Douglas Davidson-- devoted friend and colleague
Professor Emeritus--Western Michigan University
Kenya
October 9, 2020
A Poem written by George Napper, Jr. entitled, "THOUGHTS X"
1983
I have lived forever.
I am told that there was a time before me.
Books and pictures and papers try to tell me so.
I have seen people come and I have seen people go.
They say there are those who will see me go.
But I know I have lived forever.
JoAnne Beasley
October 8, 2020
Rest in Peace, Dr. Napper. Thanks for your guidance, challenges, and inspiration as my Sociology instructor at Spelman.
Prayers for peace and comfort to your family
Nuñez-Collier Family
October 8, 2020
You will forever be in our hearts and prayers. Sending lots of love to your wonderful family.
Joan E. Carroll
October 8, 2020
My condolences to the Napper family. It is not always easy to be "a first", however, Dr. Napper prevailed as Atlanta's first African American Chief of Police. Those same leadership qualities were again evident as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Children and Youth Services. Dr. Napper was genuinely concerned about the children entrusted to our care. On occasion he would stop by the Atlanta YDC to talk with the children about the importance of an education, and their future goals/plans. Afterwards, he would engage them in a little one-on-one basketball. He exhibited that same concern for staff as well. His open door policy made it less stressful to discuss concerns. He took his responsibilities seriously, as if he was setting the standards for the next person to fill that position. He was a most remarkable human being.
Chester Napper, Jr.
October 8, 2020
RIP Uncle George! You were and still are an inspiration to many. It has been a true blessing to have such a strong and positive role model in my life.
Tanya Jones MD
October 7, 2020
I met George at the University of California Berkeley where I was also a student. He was completing his Ph.D at the School of Criminology. There was a "Presence" about him. He had discipline, energy and and the habit of overcoming all challenges. I admired his attitude and stamina then and also after, the deceased Dr Peter Singleton, John Hopkins Medical Center and I had to inform him that he was faced with an extremely rare debilitating disease for which there was no cure. Always a Private person, few were aware of how he and the family suffered through progressive deteriorating symptoms. My heart goes out to the Family for all that they have endured during his Professional Career, personal tragedies, sacrifices, and final days. I have been Graced with Fifty Six years of a Rare friendship. He will be sorely missed but not forgotten.
Tanya Jones MD
margot dashiell
October 7, 2020
George's life story is more than an impressive one. I must say the sterling character described in the obituary matches what I knew of him when we were both students at U.C. Berkeley. Along with my condolences to his loved ones, I'd like to make a donation to a cause in his memory. Warmest regards, Margot Dashiell
Shirley Simpson
October 7, 2020
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Bobby Chatman
October 6, 2020
Our hearts go out to Georgie Boy's family: we too are a part of you; we grew up as family in the 1940s, and came back together while he was at Cal. From Bobby and Ernest B. Chatman.
Michael Denson
October 6, 2020
My condolences to the Napper family RIP step brother Georgie Boy!
Hazel Horne
October 6, 2020
He was my Chief Commander and loyal friend.
Kathy Owens Camp
October 6, 2020
I enjoyed the years that Chief and my dad shared as friends. The poem that he dedicated to my dad when he passed.....reigns true to him also. Our friendships became family. Prayers to the Napper family.
Reggie Williams
October 6, 2020
Atlanta is a better city because of George Napper. In a city known for it’s Black leadership, George was a man among men. He was true to himself, his family and friends. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing him is a better person because of him. May George Rest In Peace.
Rena Tillman-Napper
October 5, 2020
This wonderful man I will forever be in my heart. You were a true big brother. Job well done. Prayers to the family. Love you all
Alicia M. Ivey
October 5, 2020
A legend and Scholar. Thank you for your shining leadership.
Lee Levinson
October 5, 2020
May this courageous gentleman R.I.P. forever and a day.
Karen Rietjens
October 5, 2020
George and I attended Placer High School together. He had many friends, and I am forever grateful I was one of them. He will be truly missed.
My condolences to his family.
Evan Kirby
October 5, 2020
Thank you for being an inspiration in my life Uncle George. I’m am finally becoming the man you showed me how to be and will continue to strive for greatness. I won’t miss you because you are always with me now. I love you.
Veronica A.Carter
October 5, 2020
To the family of Mr. George I send my deepest condolences also to friends and love one,may God comfort you during your time of grieving in Jesus name
Joan Martin
October 5, 2020
To the family of the late George Napper. Sending my deepest heartfelt condolences during this time of loss. May God comfort & wrap you all in his everlasting arms. From the Meadows-Martin family (Youngstown,Ohio)
Richard Milliones
October 4, 2020
My condolences to the family on your loss. Dr. Napper was one of the most caring department heads the state of Georgia had to care for its troubled children.
Mark Rosenberg
October 4, 2020
I met George when I was working on violence prevention at CDC and he was Chief. We were trying to see if we could make information available on domestic violence offenders that would make these calls safer for the police and allow them to do a better job protecting victims. We worked together for a long time. He was a very smart, compassionate and courageous leader and I came to love him. I was fortunate to have known him and my heart goes out to his family. He was one very, very good man.
Jesse Turner
October 4, 2020
To the Napper Family,
Please accept my condolences on the yoir loss.
Chief,
It was an honor to know you, first as Atlanta Police Chief, and second as Chip's (George III) dad. Thank you for the talks in the neighborhood, who knew one day I'd wear the badge too.
RIP Chief Napper,
Jesse (Flip) Turner
Shirley Desaussure
October 4, 2020
My sincere condolences to The Napper Family. Dr. Napper was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Michael German
October 4, 2020
Kenya to your mother, brother and family we extend our sincerest condolences for the loss of your father George Napper a
historic trailblazer in law enforcement.
Michael and Beverly German.
Steve Barton
October 4, 2020
Well done, George Napper Jr. Thank you for what you did. Rest in peace.
Vincent Battle
October 4, 2020
I swelled with pride as a child after Mr Nappers appointment. Thank you for your dedication and being a trailblazer
Jessica Napperé
October 4, 2020
I’m Sorry For Your Loss Loved Ones... Nothing will call upon us to be more Courageous in Life Than Facing Death But on the Other Side of Heartbreak is Wisdom... I am Praying Family for your Peace & Comfort in this difficult time And Sending PVO...
Annie Marie Garraway, Ph.D.
October 4, 2020
I offer deepest condolences to George's family. I knew George when he and I were grad students at UC Berkeley in the 1960s. George helped organize and served as president of UC Berkeley's Black Student Union, of which I was a member. He was a talented leader and visionary then. And although our paths never crossed again after we left Berkeley, I followed his career from afar.
Annie Marie Garraway, Ph.D.
JACQUELINE PRESTON
October 4, 2020
Prayers and condolences to the Napper family. Chief Napper served Atlanta well.
Andrea Cole
October 4, 2020
Rest In Peace
Bridget Ogundipe
October 4, 2020
So much to say about Dr. Napper as one of his students at Spelman College in the 70's. Imagine the energy he had as a younger man sharing his brilliance, and he was very aware of his gifts. LOL! He didn't do alot of talking; brevity spoke volumes.. He would ask us the difference between us, the so called privileged blacks, middle class, educated women and the marginalized, socio economically challenged black person who has interfaced with the criminal justice system?? The answer, " you haven't gotten caught"". He kept us honest and vigilant against apathy. I went into Social Services and kept in contact with him for many years after Spelman. Dr Napper was authentically real and unabashed. We loved him and he always let us know he cared. Knowing him will always stand as a watershed in my life.
Redell Napper
October 4, 2020
Rest up uncle George. You were a true ATL LEADER.
K. Emanuel Solomon
October 4, 2020
Thank you sir for a job well done. To the family we extend condolences during this time of honoring your loved one. God Bless from the Solomon family.
Peggy Curney Davis
October 4, 2020
May you rest in eternal peace. Thank you for your service. Your life made a difference and your legacy will continue. The family has my deepest sympathy, condolences and prayers.
Erica B
October 4, 2020
Thank you for your service sir! Rest In Peace.
Thomasina Turner-Diggs
October 4, 2020
My sincere condolences to the family in this time of sorrow.
Yolanda Cade
October 4, 2020
Rest in Peace Mr Napper. A Great Man who fulfilled his mission to be A Great Servant.
Neil Morris
October 4, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Otha Greer
October 4, 2020
I had the pleasure of meeting George at his home shortly after relocating to Atlanta. I was immediately struck by the importance of family as we all gathered around an enormous round table and dined and the entire family shared their activities the previous days. I also enjoyed hearing the story of how they had all migrated from California, one by one, to live as a blended family here in Atlanta.
Doliska Henry
October 3, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Napper family. May God strength you all during this difficult time.
~Doliska Henry
Curtis A Richardson
October 3, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Janet Lane Martin
October 3, 2020
I was a Sociology Major at Spelman College and Dr. Napper was my Professor. I along with many Spelmanites who where his students, thought the world of him. He made a difference in our lives and for this we are grateful. His life mattered and I thank the All Mighty for placing him in mine. Farewell Dr. Napper until we meet again on the other shore.
Felicia M. Knox
October 3, 2020
I will always be grateful for your service to our city and its citizens. As a young person during the Atlanta Child Murders, I never doubted that you and the officers of APD were committed to keeping us safe. My father Joseph "Jimmy" Knox blazed a career at APD during your tenure- a generation of true public servants . Rest in Heaven.
My prayers are with the Napper family. Hold onto one another for strength.
Martha Cherry
October 3, 2020
You were a dear friend. I am going to miss you.
Pam Neal Andrews
October 3, 2020
Chief Napper was a family friend who visit us often. He contributed to many successful citizens in Atlanta and beyond.
Margaret Counts-Spriggs
October 3, 2020
My deepest sympathies to the Napper family. George was indeed a bear in sheep’s clothing!
The Spriggs family deeply admired him.
William Fauntleroy
October 3, 2020
My mentor and friend.
Rest in peace.
Dana Kilpatrick
October 3, 2020
Condolences to the Napper family. It was certainly a pleasure to know Dr Napper. He was a very intelligent and inspiring man that would assist you in any way possible. My prayers are with the family.
Marie
October 3, 2020
Family
I'm going to miss him so, so much, I thank God for my brother in law George.
Love
Marie Napper
Odessa Pinnock
October 3, 2020
My condolences and prayers to the Napper Family; may the Spirit of God continue to strengthen and comfort you. God Bless
Jewell Kelly
October 3, 2020
My deepest condolences
Pamela
October 3, 2020
Job well done,faithful servant!
Nastarssia S
October 3, 2020
Every last word, to the last words, Mr Napper said to me as a Mentor, I Will Live.
Nastarssia
October 3, 2020
Every last word, to the last words Mr Napper said to me, as a Mentor, I Will Live!
Jerry & Barbara Lewelling
October 3, 2020
George was a dear friend and classmate; we attended Placer High School in Auburn CA together. He was a wonderful man that accomplished so much in his life and truly helped create a better world.
His thoughtfulness and care for others was evident in all that he did as well as in the lovely poetry he wrote.
He will be missed greatly and always remembered fondly.
Jerry & Barbara Lewelling
John W Thomas
October 3, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Nathan and Jackie Davis
October 3, 2020
You change OUR Lives Forever. THANKS for the Opportunity.
Joel F Marable
October 3, 2020
my love and prayers to the family and my dear friend Kenya, God is with u guys.
James Fowler
October 3, 2020
Rest in peace.....
Se Ashe
October 3, 2020
So kind and humble. May your loved ones find comfort in your memory.
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