Michael J. Napier, 63, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away on September 11, 2026, from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
Mike was born on April 10, 1963, the son of Richard Napier. He graduated from Cuba Central School in 1981 and continued his education at SUNY - Cobleskill, Syracuse University, Barry University, and the University of Central Florida, where he obtained his Master of Science degree in Health Sciences.
Mike dedicated more than 30 years to a career in public health, serving more than half of that time as the lead County Public Health Official, first in Seminole County and then in Pasco County, from 2012 to 2023. He also demonstrated leadership beyond county boundaries, serving as the President of the Florida Association of County Health Officers (FACHO), Florida Public Health Association (FPHA), and Florida Association of County Public Health Department Business Administrators, throughout his career.
Mike lived life to the fullest and had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met. He valued relationships and made a point of staying in touch with the people who became part of his life. Whether a lifelong friend or someone he had just met, Mike had a way of making people feel like they mattered.
Mike believed that whenever something needed to be accomplished, no matter how big or small, you should always "Make a Plan and Work the Plan." It was a philosophy he carried throughout his life and one that reflected his determination, focus, and ability to get things done.
Mike loved to travel, fish, golf, visit with his Class of '81 friends, and passionately cheer on his beloved Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Lightning. He enjoyed making the most of life and sharing those experiences with the people he loved. Above all, he cherished time with his family, and took great joy in making memories together. Mike was especially looking forward to becoming a grandfather as he eagerly waited the arrival of his first granddaughter in December 2026.
Mike is survived by his fiance´e, Tina K. Thomas; his sons, Kristofir (Mary Clare) Napier and Andrew Napier, whom he shared with Yudy Napier; his future stepdaughters, Jenni (Joseph) Hoffman and Brooke Thomas, whom he loved as his own: his siblings Carol (Mark) Gorman and James Napier; his father Richard (Anne Bunk) Napier; several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and his many TEP fraternity brothers, classmates, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Robin Napier, and his grandparents, D.L. and Evelyn Napier.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Cuba VFW, 5425 Route 305, Cuba, NY.