Darrel Cedric "Cedric" Capers Sr.

Darrel Cedric Capers Sr., known affectionately as Cedric by many, was born the youngest of four boys in Cleveland, Ohio, on February 9, 1951, to Quinn Capers II & lda G. Capers. He was an exceptionally bright child and developed a love for music through the influence of his parents. He grew up on the East Side and attended East High School at around the time of the Hough Riots. Those uprisings would later influence his lifelong fight for human rights.

Darrel married Leola Reed in 1969, and though they later divorced, the two remained close friends until his passing. He worked for the Cuyahoga Valley Railway for many years, where he first met some of his revolutionary friends, with whom he remained connected until the end of his life. Those who knew Darrel recognized his sharp intelligence and deep love for his children. He was a deep thinker, avid reader, and he loved movies and music of various genres. In recent years, he took a creative writing class and began journaling his thoughts and life experiences. Darrel cherished time with his family, whether cheering on Cleveland's sports teams, reflecting on world events, or sharing meaningful conversations with his grandchildren.

With Darrel's lifelong work on human rights, combating police brutality, and challenging mass incarceration, he traveled and lived in many places around the country, including Philadelphia. He moved there temporarily in the mid-1980s, following the bombing of the MOVE organization, to advocate for and assist its members. He also lived and worked on initiatives in Miami for several years before relocating to New York City, where he resided for approximately 20 years, dedicating himself to fighting for humanity. Darrel moved back to Cleveland in the early 2000s to be closer to family. He continued to fight for human rights despite declining health, leading his fellow tenants in contacting city officials to address building code issues affecting seniors' well-being, and attending protests until his health no longer permitted him to. One of his mottos in life was "never go along with the status quo, stand up for what's right".

Darrel passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, surrounded by family. He leaves to mourn six children: Alan Capers, Darrel Capers Jr, Dr. Kayla (Francis) Price, Loreal (LaRon) Jones, LeAndra Capers, and Cheyenne Tang. Six grandchildren: Dominick Huggins, Deandra Capers, Arielle Capers, Evan Capers, Landon Allen, and Leighton Jones. Two great - grandsons: Dayton Huggins and Julian Huggins. Brothers Charles (Frieda) Capers and Mayo Capers. Dearest friend, Leola, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends. Darrel's parents preceded him in death, along with his oldest brother, Quinn Capers III, and his son, Adam (Stacey) Capers.