Darrell Jepson

1944 - 2024

Darrell Jepson

July 30, 1944 - February 14, 2024

Modesto, California - The world lost a bit of its brightness on February 14. Darrell E Jepson, beloved husband, brother, and uncle, passed away at the age of 79. Darrell was born in Boston to Frank and Mary Jepson on July 30, 1944, while Frank was serving in WWII. When Darrell was 3 years old, his parents took him and his younger brother, Don, to Modesto California in a 1935 Chevy named Sadie. His formal education began in the Modesto School system from Tuolumne Elementary to Thomas Downey High School, but the fun part of his education was going to the local racetracks to learn about cars; fishing and camping all over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during the summers; and creating fun and mischief with his 3 brothers. Darrell's family moved to Chapman, Kansas in 1961, and Darrell finished his last two years of high school at Dickinson County Community HS, graduating in 1962.

Returning to California Darrell, worked for Acme Construction and enrolled in classes at Modesto JC . He enlisted in the Navy in 1965 and became a Navy Seabee. As a member of the branch's construction battalion, he was a trained electrician. After weapons training, he was sent to Da Nang in 1966. Darrell completed multiple tours at Cam Ranh Bay in 1969, then, he returned to Modesto JC, after his discharge. He used his GI Bill for the purpose it was created. His appetite for education and critical thought was voracious. His nearly 6'5" frame and freshly grown beard was imposing and earned him a lifelong nickname of "Bear". Darrell got a BA in English at Cal State, Stanislaus in 1972, followed by his Secondary Teaching Credential in 1973. He then started a 31- year teaching career at Ross School in Hughson, affecting many lives in a positive manner.

On September 3rd, 1983, he married Kathy Burns. She joked that with his cooking skills, she'd never have to fix meals. But, some 5 weeks after the wedding, Darrell was in a tragic traffic accident. He was rushed to Doctor's Hospital, then airlifted to The Santa Clara Spinal Injury Unit in San Jose. Darrell spent 6 months there, as he was preparing for the next half of his life in a wheelchair. Darrell resumed his teaching job and was soon awarded Northern California's Rehabilitant of the Year. A specially adapted van allowed him extended mobility and freedom. His brain never slowed; his curious nature allowed him to become very adept with the computer; and his enjoyment with friends never waned. He never complained about the cards he was dealt and was a true inspiration in finding the silver lining.

Darrell is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Kathy Burns-Jepson; his brothers, Don (Kathy-dec), Dean (Laura), and John (Dora); nieces, Janelle Peoples (Jim), Kristi Warren (Robb), and Erin McGee(Geremy); nephews Jade Jepson, Jayce Jepson (Jasmin), and Jordan Jepson(Alyssa); as well as long-time friend and associate, Bill Russell. A private service was held.