Ginger Kay Napue

A Joyful Remembrance of Ginger Kay Napue

Sunrise - November 10, 1945 – Sunset - July 13, 2025

Ginger Kay Napue lived a life rich with love, talent, adventure, and pioneering spirit. Born on November 10, 1945, in Topeka, Kansas, to Abercrombie and Allabelle Napue, Ginger was the beloved eldest sibling to Karla Napue-Browning (Louis) of Sacramento, California, and Eric Napue of Topeka, Kansas.

From a young age, Ginger blazed trails. As part of the first class to integrate Topeka Public Schools following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision, she stepped into history with grace and resilience. A gifted musician, Ginger's talents on the piano and violin shone brightly-so much so that she was promoted to the Topeka Civic Symphony while still in the ninth grade.

Her childhood was full of energy, creativity, and joyful activity. She was a proud member of St. John AME Church, sang in a city youth choir led by Mr. Hurd, and participated in Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Ginger twirled and glided her way through ballet and even shared her love of dance as a teacher. She camped across the country with her family. Ginger was a member of the first Black Girl Scout Troop 348 led by Ida B. Norman. The troop prepared and attended Our Cabana, an International Girl Scout Encampment in Cuernavaca, Mexico--another first.

After graduating high school, Ginger attended Washburn University and began a long, successful career with IBM. Her career took her from Kansas to Colorado to California, where she settled in Oakland, married William Robinson (later divorced), and welcomed her greatest joy: her son, Justin Napue-Robinson. Ginger later returned to Topeka, completed her degree at Washburn, and became a Licensed Social Worker-dedicated to serving her community at Shawnee County Court Services.

Eventually, Ginger moved to sunny Mesa, Arizona, where she enjoyed her final chapter. She passed peacefully on July 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and generosity.

Ginger is lovingly remembered by her son Justin (Stephanie Dunn) and grandchildren Jaden and Kara of Gilbert, Arizona; her sister Karla (Louis); her brother Eric; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends-some of whom have walked with her in friendship for more than 75 years.

Ginger lit up every room she entered. She was quick with a laugh, deep with wisdom, and unwavering in her love for her family and friends. She didn't just witness history-she helped shape it.

Per her wishes, there will be no memorial service. Ginger asked that we celebrate her life not with sorrow, but with stories, smiles, and maybe a little music. She will be missed, but her spirit remains ever vibrant in all who knew and loved her.