It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Irene (Sopher) Napier on February 19, 2024, in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Linda was born on October 15, 1947, in Hammond, Indiana, to Rollin and Louise Sopher, alongside her twin brother and lifelong friend, Randy. She was preceded in death by her infant baby sister, Juanita; her parents, Rollin and Louise; her younger brother, Roger; and her beloved canine companion, Daisy.
Linda is survived and deeply missed by her loving daughter, Bonnie Honeycutt (John); her twin brother, Randy Sopher (Rosanna); and eldest brother, Rollin Sopher II (Martha). She also leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews: Rollin Sopher III (Debbie), Jeff Sopher, Jenny Young (Gordon), Randy Sopher Jr., Melissa Sopher, Roger Sopher Jr., and Melinda Kendys (Chris), plus several great nieces and nephews and many dear friends.
In January 2020, Linda received the diagnosis of stage 4 small-cell lung cancer, which had metastasized to her brain. Despite the doctor's initial prognosis of only two to four months to live, Linda courageously fought the disease and achieved remission. However, in June 2022, she encountered two small strokes that led to a loss of her independence. Subsequently, she relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she resided with her daughter and son-in-law. A further stroke necessitated her transition to a rehabilitation facility, where she faced additional health challenges.
Linda was known for her boundless love and generosity, always giving selflessly even in times of scarcity. Her vibrant spirit and independent nature led her to pursue numerous passions and hobbies throughout her life, including oil painting, crochet, sewing, upholstery, macramé, woodworking, fishing, guitar, playing games, and various other arts and crafts—often accompanied by the timeless melodies of classic country music. However, her true passion lay in the culinary arts, where she delighted in experimenting with new recipes and sharing her creations with friends and family. She also possessed a special affinity for animals and realized her lifelong dream of becoming an equestrian, forming a deep bond with her beloved Arabian mare, Babe. Linda's adventurous spirit knew no bounds; she eagerly embraced new experiences and challenges with enthusiasm. Her colorful personality extended beyond herself, as evidenced by her penchant for transforming ordinary surfaces into works of art, from traditional canvases to unconventional items, such as rocks, gourds, fences, or saw blades—anything that sparked her imagination.
Her smile and laughter could light up a room, and she could also be strong-willed, sassy, and stubborn, which helped her be an independent woman and strong fighter. Like her father, she loved practical jokes and would come up with playful nicknames for almost everyone she knew and loved.
Despite her health setbacks, Linda maintained her smile and humor until the end, bringing joy to those around her, including the dedicated nurses and staff at NHC Hendersonville. Her zest for life and unwavering resilience inspired all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Linda's life at Teibel’s in Schererville, Indiana, on Saturday, March 2nd, from noon until 4:00 pm. We encourage attendees to share fond memories and stories that honor Linda's legacy. Please wear bright or colorful attire, as Linda would have wished.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made toward a pink butterfly memorial statue at Hendersonville Memory Gardens, Tennessee, where Linda's journey concluded. This final resting place holds special significance, as it is also the final resting place of several legendary country music artists, including Johnny Cash and June Carter, whom Linda greatly admired.
Linda's daughter, Bonnie, extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers who provided love, support, hugs, and laughter during Linda's thirteen-month journey at NHC Hendersonville.
