John Campbell "Kelly" Peppers

John Campbell “Kelly” Peppers, 64, of Marion, North Carolina, passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at CarePartners Solace Center in Asheville.

A native of McDowell County, he was born August 26, 1958 to Dr. James F. Peppers and the late Carolyn Medford Peppers.

Kelly formerly worked as a truck driver with ABF Freight Systems. At the time of his retirement, he had logged over 2,000,000 accident-free miles. He was a member of East Marion United Methodist Church. Kelly took great pride in his yard and home, especially by mowing and mopping. He could tinker with machines of all kinds, and he had a passion for cars and motorcycles. He enjoyed watching the Andy Griffith Show and listening to gospel music. Kelly enjoyed feasting on anything that others prepared for him. He also had quite the sweet tooth. He loved sitting around the firepit with family and friends. More than anything, he will be remembered for his infectious smile.

In addition to his father, Dr. James Peppers and stepmother, Karen Peppers, he is survived by his companion, Michael Hain; two children, Katie and Zach; his sister, Beth Coats and husband Fred Coats; niece, Hannah; nephew, Jacob; loving "auntie" Kay and Annabelle; and a large extended family all of whom loved Kelly dearly.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at East Marion United Methodist Church with Rev. Philip Tate and Rev. Gary Greene officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Entombment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery where Kelly will be laid to rest beside his mother.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, CarePartners Hospice, or East Marion United Methodist Church, PO Box 2481, Marion, NC 28752.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to CarePartners Hospice and the staff of the Solace Center.