Jesse Napier

Jesse Napier, 77, of Danville, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 13, 2025. He was born at home, in Indianapolis on March 19, 1948. He was number 6 of seven children, a son of the late John D. and Lizzie B. (Noble) Napier. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by 2 children, Michelle Diane Napier, and Michael Allen Lane; 4 siblings, Bonnie Key, Reva Caldwell, Barb Graham and Wilma Sue Pugh.

Jesse and his family moved to Danville when he was a teenager, attending Danville High School for a short time. He went to work with his father and brother at Napier and Sons, where they specialized in heating and cooling, and also plumbing. Later he worked as a mechanic for Sunoco and AAmco. He retired in the late 90’s from American Trans-Air, Head of the Engine Shop. Jesse was very spiritual and loved the Lord. He was an evangelist with the Road to Calvary Church in Glen St. Mary, Florida and more recently with the Free Spirit Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was a singer and musician, playing Southern Gospel Music on the guitar, with many talented musicians. Jesse met his best friend and love of his life, Carol McKamey, while she was helping his sister, Wilma, with her transportation to and from their job. The story goes, Jesse met Carol coming out of his sister’s house, he picked her up, flipped her upside down, set her back up right and said, “She’ll do”. Together for 49 years, they filled their home with God as the Head and children, love and music and laughter.

Jesse is survived by his loving wife, Carol Napier; children, Bev (Alvin) Napier Oberly, Jesse Lee Napier and grandchildren, Corey Lee Napier, Taylor Ranae Napier, Cody Swanson, Kayla Mathews, Richard Napier and Josh (Megan) Blaschke; sister, Jerema Robertson and brother, Caren Napier. Also missing him are numerous extended family members.

The family will receive friends at the Helton & Harris Funeral Home from 4:30pm until the time of service at 6:30pm on Monday, September 22, 2025. Online condolences may be offered at www.heltonandharrisfuneralhomes.com.