Obituary of George Huelon Napier, Jr.

In Loving Memory of George Huelon Napier, Jr.

George Huelon Napier, Jr. passed away peacefully in his home in Chevy Chase, Maryland on December 6, 2023, at the age of 94. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed member of his community who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Known for his unwavering dedication to his family and faith, leadership, and love of golf, George’s life was a testament to strength, love, and the joys of a life well-lived. 

George was born on April 28, 1929, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, into a large family. He moved to Detroit, Michigan and graduated from Detroit Institute of Technology, College and Arts and Sciences in 1954.  It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Bertina Marie Napier (b. Guillory), with whom he shared 72 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children in the Catholic faith.

George dedicated his professional life to medicine and science. He became the lead Clinical Microbiologist for Detroit Osteopathic Hospital and managed their microbiology and pathology labs. George retired in 1991 after 37 years with the hospital. Around this time, he was awarded a lifetime membership to the Detroit chapter of the NAACP after years of commitment and consistent support.

George and Bertina were active congregants of Presentation Our Lady of Victory Church, where he served many years as a church usher and on the Parish Council. George was a proud and active member of the Nu Omega graduate chapter of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. He also had a deep passion for golf. As a member of the Detroit Duffers, he played in numerous tournaments and received many golf trophies which were displayed (along with his Omega paddle) in his home.

Upon retirement, George and Bertina relocated to Ocala, Florida. He was an active member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church where he resumed his role as an usher. He was also very proud of his involvement with and support for the good works of the Knights of Columbus.  Still an avid golfer, George also became a skilled bridge player, and he and Bertina participated in several Ocala-based social groups such as The Detroiters. In recent years, the couple settled in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

George’s most treasured joy was his long marriage to his beloved wife, Bertina, whom he wed on September 11, 1951. Their relationship was a testament to the possibilities of a loving and committed partnership. Together, they built a strong family and left behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.

George is survived by their three children, Denise Marie Russell (Seth d.), George H. Napier, III (May), and Diana Lynn Napier (Vaughn); seven grandchildren, Mark Lynn, Charles DeClouette, Richard DeClouette, Jason Russell, Emerson Davis, Gabriel Olalia-Napier, and Marie-Elise Olalia-Napier; and five great-grandchildren: Carra, Alexia, Caidyn, Xavier, and Xander DeClouette. He also leaves behind a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends who will carry his memory with them always.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bertina, and their son, Charles Richard DeClouette.

George Huelon Napier, Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to his family, his steadfast faith, and his lifelong commitment to service. His kindness, wisdom, and warm spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and they will continue to honor him by living their lives with the same courage, love, and joy that George embodied.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Candler, Florida with a visitation one hour prior.  Entombment will follow at Highland Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services 910 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, Florida 34470.