Tessie Napier's Obituary
A Life Full of Love: Tessie M. Napier
April 22, 1938 – January 12, 2025
On April 22, 1938, Tessie Mae Napier entered the world in Marshall, Missouri, as a beloved daughter to Maybelle Haley and Fred Weaver. Born the second of four siblings, with a cherished half-sister, Michelle Weaver, and her sister Antoinette Bell, Tessie grew up surrounded by family, faith, and the experiences that would shape her remarkable life. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Albert “Bunny” Weaver, Wesley Weaver, and Samuel Haley, and her grandson Christopher N. Napier, all of whom she now joyfully reunites with in heaven.
Tessie’s story is one of resilience and love, a testament to a life lived with grace and purpose. In her formative years, Tessie embraced every opportunity for growth, attending Lincoln School in Marshall, where her radiant personality and strong work ethic shone. Her journey brought her the blessings of love and family, first as a devoted mother to her eldest daughter, Maggie, and later as the cherished wife of Elzie L. Napier Jr. Elzie lovingly welcomed Maggie as his own, and together they built a family filled with love and laughter. Tessie and Elzie were blessed with seven daughters, though heartbreakingly, three passed pre-birth. This sorrow only deepened Tessie’s devotion to her family and faith, which carried her through life’s challenges with unwavering strength.
To know Tessie was to experience warmth, resilience, and unshakable grace. Her home was always alive with the aroma of home-cooked meals, the hum of her sewing machine, and the sound of shared stories and laughter. She had a gift for transforming ordinary days into cherished memories and an elegance that made her unforgettable. Tessie’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she gave herself fully to Christ, singing His praises and serving Him wholeheartedly. She was a longtime member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Marshall before joining New Generation Christian Center in Lee’
s Summit, where her radiant presence and devotion touched countless lives.
Her career reflected her compassion and work ethic. Tessie dedicated years to the Marshall State School and Hospital, where she retired, and also worked for Banquet Foods and as a housekeeper and babysitter for families in her early years. In every role, she brought care and kindness that left a lasting impression.
Tessie’s legacy of love, strength, and faith lives on in her daughters Maggie L. Perkins, Gerri Jones (Albert), Joann Boston (Rodney), Maryann E. Napier, and Teresa Napier. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Chassidi Napier-Mitchell, Steven Jennings (Nick), Sheena Griffin, Erica Jones, Dani Jones, and Troy Napier, along with eight great-grandchildren who carry her spirit forward. Tessie’s memory is also cherished by her sisters-in-law Doris Weaver and Sandra McFadden Weaver, a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends whose lives she touched.
Tessie Napier was more than a mother, wife, sister, or friend—she was a beacon of hope and joy, a living testament to the power of love and faith. Though she is no longer with us, her light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Tessie’s story will be told for generations, a reminder of what it means to live a life full of love.
Celebration of Life
March 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
Martin Center
Marshall, MO 65340
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