James Harold Napper

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, James “Jim” Napper II, who left us peacefully at home surrounded by family on Saturday, December 27, 2025. Jim, or “Jimmy” as he was known in his youth, was born in Simsboro, Louisiana, on November 27, 1946, to James “Harold” Napper and LaRue Bailey Napper.

Growing up in Simsboro, Jimmy was a gifted athlete who excelled in academics, baseball, and basketball. At Simsboro High School, he was named a National Merit Finalist, earned all-state basketball honors, and graduated as Valedictorian. He later attended Louisiana Tech University, where he was a member of the men’s basketball team during the 1964–1965 season.

Jim earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Economics from Louisiana Tech University and a Juris Doctor degree from the LSU Law Center in 1970. He served on active duty in the United States Army before beginning his legal career. Jim was admitted to practice law before all Louisiana state courts, the U.S. District Courts for the Western and Middle Districts of Louisiana, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Jim’s distinguished career as an attorney and public servant spanned more than five decades. He began practicing law in Monroe with the firm of Shotwell, Brown, and Sperry, later serving as Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Ouachita National Bank. After relocating to Baton Rouge, he continued his banking career as Executive Vice President, Secretary, and General Counsel of Premier Bancorp and Premier Bank, N.A., later known as Bank One Louisiana. His career culminated in his service as Executive Counsel for the Louisiana Department of the Treasury. In recognition of his dedication to public service, Jim was named a recipient of the 50th Annual Monte J. Lemann Award by the Louisiana Civil Service League. Upon his retirement, January 15, 2015, was designated James H. “Jim” Napper II Day in the state of Louisiana.

In his later years, Jim found great joy in cheering for LSU athletics, especially baseball. He and his wife, Charlotte, were longtime season ticket holders and regulars at LSU baseball games. Jim’s faith and his connection to his church played a vital role in his life. He was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church, serving on various committees over the years, and he held his Tuesday Night Men’s group especially close to his heart.

Jim is survived by his wife, Charlotte Hightower Napper; his daughter, Hillary Napper Greer (Jonathan Nester); his son, James H. Napper III (Lucie); and his grandchildren, Caroline Greer (Rory Charest), James “Bodie” Greer, and James “Boomer” Napper IV. He is also survived by his brother, Marshall T. Napper (Paula), as well as a niece and many nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James “Harold” Napper and LaRue Bailey Napper, and his brother Lue Charles Napper.

Pallbearers include Rey Abadie, Rory Charest, Robert Dillard, James “Bodie” Greer, Lomax Napper, and Jonathan Nester. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Tom Foster, Ernie Freeman, Donald Greer Jr., Ron Hensen, Charles “Butch” Hightower, Senator John Kennedy, and Daniel LaFont.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Louis Minsky and staff, Briuana Robins, and the Hospice of Baton Rouge for their compassionate care.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Jefferson United Methodist Church, 10328 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge. A Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 11:00 a.m. 

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com