Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mr. Darrell Gene Pepper

2/5/1952 - 5/3/2025

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Obituary For Mr. Darrell Gene Pepper

Mr. Darrell Gene Pepper was born February 5, 1952 in Ansted, WV in their family home. He passed Saturday, May 3, 2025.

Darrell was the eldest son of Marian Yvonne Hines and Maldon C. Upton Sr. of Cleveland, OH.

Darrell learned at an early age, the importance of family values with the supportive love of a strong mother and grandparents, Vester and Bessie Pepper.

Darrell grew up trying to be a positive role model and encouraged his three younger siblings, Yvette, Jeff and Lisa. He also gave his life to the Lord as a young man and was saved and baptized in their family church in Ansted.

Darrell graduated from Ansted High School, where he played on the football team, finding his love for the sport. He loved music and was also in band playing the harmonica and singing. He learned the importance of friendship and how to accomplish his goals. He truly never met a stranger and loved all people.

Darrell, after graduating, went to WV State College increasing his knowledge and also continued singing in the Glee Club. There in college he met and fell in love with his beloved wife, Frankie. Their union expanded 53 years. In that marriage he became a father of two. Although he was a father of two, he opened his home to many nephews and nieces.

Darrell, during his life never stopped learning, and to provide for his family he became a licensed electrician working at Volkswagon, Ravenswood Aluminum, and later creating his own electrical company, Pepper Electric. He was also a Union member of IBEW, the Elk Lodge Prince Hall Mason, then later joined TL Tech with his best friend and business partner, Tim Taylor. He became a director of an educational program called Connec Train Corp., teaching trade jobs to recovering addicts and ex-offenders.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Saturday May 17, 2025 at All Nations Revival Centre 325 Academy Dr. Dunbar, WV.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may visit with the family one-hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Connec Train Corp. 1116 Smith St. Suite 301 Charleston, WV 25301.

To livestream go to allnationsrc .org

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Condolences

05/15/2025

Sara Bragg Aikin

"Pep" and I grew up together in our small West Virginia hometown, and the nickname he earned certainly was appropriate. Our bond was strengthened by the fact that my dad and Pep's grandfather were best friends. We managed to stay in touch for quite a few years after both of us moved away from home, but (sadly) that contact lessened as we aged. My memories of Pep have never faded, however, and my heart breaks for the loss. May the Lord provide the comfort and peace that his loved ones need.
05/11/2025

Michael Lynon

I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Darrell. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten. I treasure the time that we spent as a work partner and trusted buddy and have assurance that the positive energy that he shared w ith us will be reflected on for the quality of his wisdom, friendship and wit. Rest well Brother.
05/10/2025

Eric E Haskin

Thanking God for lending Darrell to this world for 73 years yet preparing him for another yet to come to spend eternity with Our Savior . To be absent from the body is to be present or at home with the Lord.2Corinthians 5:8
05/09/2025

James and Bonnie Brooks

So sorry for the loss of your family member.
05/08/2025

Butch and Tracey Pack

We send our heart felt condolences and prayers to the family and friends may he Rest In Peace