Nichola "Nicky" Lea (Vangilder) Napier

Our dearly loved mother, Nichola “Nicky” Lea (Vangilder) Napier, of Bloomington, IN, passed away at the age of 76. Nicky graduated from Honey Creek High School, in Terre Haute, earned a Master’s Degree in English Literature from Indiana University, and professionally taught English Literature, Grammar, and Drama for 25 years. Our wonderful mother was adventurous and bold, an accomplished horsewoman, amateur entomologist, historian, photographer, author, artist, genealogist, and philosopher and could talk with you about any topic. Nicky enjoyed watching movies, travelling, researching and writing historical fiction, fashion, and spending time with family and friends, and participating in many community organizations. Her children will always be grateful for her intelligence, strength, imparting a love of learning, her encouragement, support, wisdom, enthusiasm for family history, and storytelling. A proud grandmother, Nicky enjoyed her grandchildren to the fullest, observant of their interests and fostering them. We will miss her greatly, but secure in her love, guidance, and strength, always.

Nicky was predeceased by her father, Ray Vangiler and her mother, Fay (Fry) Vangilder and is survived by daughters Nicole Napier-Kurdelski of Bloomington and Robin Bougher of Jasper, and son Robert Napier of Bloomington, grandsons Jasper Bougher and Shaw Kurdelski and granddaughter Ember Bougher. 

The memorial service will be at the Pimento Masonic Temple from 1-4pm, Saturday, Nov. 12th. Ceremonies from her organizations will be conducted approximately 1-2pm. You are welcome to attend those.  Following, we will gather, sharing memories, photos and refreshments. Should you wish to send any items of condolences (cards, flowers etc.) they are welcome but not expected. There may be no one to receive them at the location until the day, you may contact DeBaun Funeral Home for an address or please bring to the service.

Memorial Service location:
Pimento Masonic Temple
2211 East Cottom Dr
Terre Haute IN 47802

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