Erin Napier announces death of her Aunt Marilyn, known as Mae Mae, in a heartfelt Instagram tribute. The Home Town star shared that her aunt died on Wednesday, November 4, and remembered her as the woman who helped shape her childhood.
Meanwhile, Erin named her youngest daughter, Mae, after her aunt.
Erin Napier Announces Death at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Who shared the news | Erin Napier |
| Who died | Her Aunt Marilyn, known as Mae Mae |
| Date | November 4, 2026 |
| Age and cause | Not shared |
| Work connection | Greeter at the Napiers’ Laurel stores |
| Namesake | Daughter Mae, 5 |
What Did Erin Napier Say About Her Aunt?
Erin wrote that anyone who met her aunt at the stores did not forget her. In her words, “Her gift was loving people.” She added that Marilyn worked in retail her entire life and loved talking to customers.
Erin also said her aunt saw her creative gifts early. As a result, she helped raise a professional artist without even realizing it.
How Did Aunt Mae Mae Shape Erin’s Childhood?
Marilyn looked after Erin while her mother worked as a part-time realtor. Together, they watched John Wayne movies, learned about the presidents and sang Elvis songs. Marilyn also spoke to Erin about her faith.
Erin shared a few small memories too. For example, she recalled the smell of Ivory soap, being bathed in a cast-iron sink and eating little ice cream cones with marshmallows and strawberry jam hidden at the bottom. She ended the post by hoping her aunt got to meet Elvis, and she called her aunt “so very special.”
Why Did Erin Name Her Daughter Mae?
Erin said she always knew she would name her last baby girl after her aunt. In fact, when Mae was born in 2021, her name was mentioned on This Is Us as an Easter egg from actor Chris Sullivan. Erin and Ben Napier now have two daughters, Helen and Mae.
How Did Fans Respond?
Fans filled the comments with condolences and memories. Many said they met Mae Mae while she greeted customers at Laurel Mercantile Co. Overall, commenters described a warm woman who made every visitor feel welcome.
What Is Happening With Home Town?
Erin and Ben are filming Season 11 of Home Town in Laurel, Mississippi. The loss came just days after the couple celebrated a Daytime Emmy win for Home Town Takeover: Sebring. However, Erin’s post didn’t share details about her aunt’s age, cause of death or funeral plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Erin Napier announce the death of?
Her Aunt Marilyn, known as Mae Mae, who died on November 4, 2026.
Why did Erin name her daughter Mae?
She named her youngest daughter after her aunt.
How did Aunt Mae Mae work with the Napiers?
She worked as a greeter at their Laurel stores.
Is Erin Napier leaving Home Town?
No such announcement has been made. She and Ben are filming Season 11.
What was her cause of death?
It hasn’t been shared.
Conclusion on the Erin Napier Announces Death News
Erin Napier announces death of a woman who loved people, encouraged her art and gave her daughter a name. Meanwhile, fans are sharing their own memories of Mae Mae. Above all, the tribute shows how much she meant to the Napier family.

Faizullah Baig
Entertainment & Digital Culture Writer at WordPlay2018
Faizullah Baig is a writer at WordPlay2018 covering entertainment, celebrity news, movies, television, pop culture, and digital trends.
His work focuses on explaining current entertainment stories in a clear and reader-friendly way, with attention to the details behind trending headlines.
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