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Jeffrey George Pepper: June 21, 1944 – January 24, 2025

Jeffrey George Pepper

Jeffrey George Pepper: June 21, 1944 – January 24, 2025

Leaders shine their brightest contributing to the passions they love. Our sport is a better place because of the legendary contributions of Jeffrey Pepper. His dog world resume is one of extraordinary achievements.

Jeffrey Pepper with Kentucky Derby bugler Steve Buttleman

After breeding more than 65 Golden Retriever and 55 Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen AKC Champions, Jeffrey began his judging career. His calendar was full, with judging assignments for such prestigious shows as The Westminster Kennel Club in New York and our AKC National Championship show in Orlando. His passport was worn, as foreign judging trips swept him away to Australia, Brazil, Canada, South America, China, Denmark, Holland, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Take the Lead on Millionaires Row, planned by Butch and Robin Schulman with the Collie Club of America at Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky. L/R Mari-Beth O’Neill, John Buddie, Linda Ayers Turner Knorr, Butch Schulman, Cindy Vogels, Mary Miller, Robin Schulman, Jeffrey Pepper

Jeffrey is revered for perhaps one of his greatest gifts to all of us when, in 1993, he joined Thomas H. Bradley, III, Dottie Collier, Ellen Frost, Michael Larizia, Patricia W. Laurens, and Eric Steel in founding TAKE THE LEAD. This year, TTL celebrates its twenty-eighth anniversary of assisting active members of our sport in times of need. We should all remember how hundreds have been assisted over the years, and especially during COVID when so many needed help from TTL to pay health insurance for those in the sport who had insurance but were unable to work. Thanks to thousands volunteer hours and generous donors, Jeffrey’s legacy will continue his mission to offer support to his friends in our sport.

An Always Remember evening celebrating TTL in Greenville, South Carolina. L/R Pamela Beale, Randy Garren, Dennis McCoy, Bill Shelton, Mari-Beth O’Neill, Jeffrey Pepper, and Linda Ayers Turner Knorr

Let us remember the ideals Jeffrey Pepper has left to us. His hard work and good deeds paved the way for each of us today. What will your legacy be? How would you like to be remembered?