Tonda Lee Napier

Tonda Lee Napier was born in Hyden, KY on August 15, 1957 to the union of the late Sam and Lois Gibson Fugate.  She had been a life-long resident of Leslie County and was currently residing at Wooton, Kentucky.  She was united in marriage to Sam Napier in Hazard, Kentucky and remained a constant source of love and support until his passing. 

Tonda was a graduate of Leslie County High School.  She went on to obtain her CNA License where she would begin a career that would leave a mark on many lives.  She had an extensive career in Healthcare that spanned over 33 years.  She had a servants spirit shone brightly throughout her life, including her tenure at various institutions including Hyden Nursing Home for eleven years, home health for four years, and lastly, dedicating twenty-two years of her life to Hospice of the Bluegrass until her retirement.

She was not only a healthcare professional but also a beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Nana, and Sister. Tonda held the esteemed position of matriarch within her family—a role she fulfilled with grace and love. Known for always putting others before herself, she served as a steadfast pillar and mother figure to those around her.

Tonda's heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren—Adam held a special place as her sweetheart while Emma was the apple of her eye. She faced life's challenges fearlessly, maintaining unwavering faith and a positive outlook even in times of tribulation. Tonda was a strong advocate for her family, standing up for what she believed in.  Her proudest accomplishment was embracing her faith through baptism and nurturing her profound connection with God—a guiding light throughout her life's journey.

On Saturday, July 13th, 2024, Tonda departed this earthly walk of life at the age of 66 with her beloved family by her side. 

In addition to her parents, Tonda was preceded in death by Husband Sam Napier, two brothers Jimmy Gibson and Larry Fugate; two sisters Judi Blount and Glenda Fields; her maternal grandparents Bige and Eula Campbell.

Among those who will forever cherish Tonda's memory are her surviving family: Daughter Vonda K. Napier of Wooton, KY; Son Sammy Napier of Wooton; Sisters Teresa Day (Robert) of Wooton, Linda Stidham (Jr.) of Busy, and Cynthia Johnson (Johnny Ray) of Smilax; Grandchildren Matthew Napier, Adam Napier (Jessica), and Emma Napier (Dylan); Great-grandchildren Noah and Logan Napier; A cherished family member Becky Napier; And a host of treasured nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends also survive.

A funeral Service to commemorate Tonda's life will be held Thursday, July 18th at 3:00 PM in the chapel of Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home with Rev. Billy Joe Lewis officiating.

Interment will follow the service at the Napier Family Cemetery at Wooton, KY with Sammy Napier, Adam Napier, Dylan Couch, Brandon Johnson, Larry Wayne Fugate and Gary Fugate serving as pallbearers.

A visitation will take place on July 18th at Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home in Hyden from 1:00 PM until the service hour at 3:00 PM

Arrangements are being handled carefully under the direction of Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home