Vivian Arlene Napier, lovingly known as “Viv,” passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 84. A woman of immense love, resilience, and dedication, Vivian’s life was one of service to her family, her community, and the countless students whose lives she touched.
Born on January 17, 1941, Vivian was a woman driven by a passion to provide a better life for those she loved. Early in life, she trained as a hairdresser, but her entrepreneurial spirit led her to open a women’s clothing store in Ridgecrest, CA. She moved back to Waldron in 1982 after liquidation of her store. Her journey didn’t stop there. Vivian obtained her real estate license, all while taking classes to pursue a teaching degree. She continued her education with an unyielding commitment, attending evening courses and summer sessions at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, where she earned a Master’s degree to become a counselor. One of her proudest accomplishments was seeing her name engraved at the University of Arkansas Fayetteville campus, a symbol of her hard work and determination.
Vivian’s career in education began when she taught as a GED teacher at Waldron High School. She later transitioned to a counseling role at Waldron Middle School, where she remained until her retirement. As a counselor, Vivian made an unforgettable impact on many students. Her warm, caring nature helped her students feel loved and supported—many of them remembering her as a guiding light in their lives.
Her life was a testament to her belief in the power of love and service. Vivian lived by the motto that love was the answer to all of life’s challenges, and she continually poured her heart into her family, friends, and community. She never hesitated to put others first, always ready to offer a helping hand, no matter the cost to herself. Her kindness, compassion, and dedication left an unforgettable mark on those who knew her.
Vivian’s love for her family was immeasurable. Her connections with each family member were deep and enduring, and she cherished the memories they made together. She often shared that “love is all you need,” and she lived that truth every day.
Vivian loved her Lord and Savior. She often expressed gratitude for the blessings in her life, always acknowledging that her love came from Him. Her favorite verse, Isaiah 40:31, encapsulated the strength and grace she lived by: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
Vivian is survived by her beloved son, Charlie Scott, and his spouse, Marion Scott, both of Waldron; her sister, Virginia Ladda, also of Waldron; and five grandchildren—Justin & Kelly Scott, Travis & Delia Scott, JJ Scott, Jacob Scott & Kaitlen, and Jenise & Shawn Briley. She is also survived by 18 great-grandchildren: Brendan, Addy, Brooke, Conner, Travis, Brianna, Ethan, Preston, Gavin, Jaymz, Gracelyn, Ava, Viviana, Brody, Ben, Kentley, Aubrey and Aiden; as well as four great-great-grandchildren: Adelaide, Eloise, Ryler, and Rowan. She is also survived by three nieces, Jeannie & Kenny Black, Judy Napier, her nephew, John Napier, all of Waldron, and Cindy & John Grubb of Boles; along with many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, John and Nora Napier; her brother, Virgil Napier; and her son, James K. Scott.
A celebration of her life viewing will be at Heritage Funeral Home on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 2:00-4:00 p.m. Her memorial service will take place at Heritage Funeral Home on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Vivian’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. In her honor, we carry forward the love she spread in this world. Vivian would want us to lift our faces to the sun, spread kindness, and remember that love is the most powerful gift we can share
Pall Bearers: Justin Scott, Travis Scott, JJ Scott, Jacob Scott, Brendan Scott, Jaymz Scott
