Donald C. "Donnie" Pepper

Donald "Donnie" C. Pepper, 78, a beloved and well-known member of the Canton community, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. He was called home to his Lord and Savior while doing what he loved most-working on the farm-and was welcomed with the words, "well done, faithful servant."

Born on November 20, 1946, Donald Clarence Pepper was the son of the late Lyle "Muck" and Ella Mae (Kelley) Pepper. He was a proud graduate of Canton Area Schools, Class of 1964. Following graduation, Donnie began his working life at the former Canford Manufacturing in Canton. He later took over his grandfather's dairy farm and subsequently relocated to his current home and farm in Leroy Township in 1970. There, he remained dedicated to farming for the rest of his life.

On March 18, 1994, Donnie married the former Sharon Ellis, and together they shared 31 years of love, laughter, and partnership. Affectionately known as "Butterscotch" by many, Donnie was a familiar face at the Leroy Independent Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a trustee. He was also an active member of the Leroy Sportsman's Association.

Pep was known for his tireless work ethic and his sweet tooth for butterscotch candy. His outgoing nature meant he never met a stranger-everyone Don encountered quickly became a friend. His deep faith in his Lord and unwavering love for his family were the cornerstones of his life, guiding him in all he did.

Surviving Donnie are his wife, Sharon, at home, children; Jamie (Amy Hicks) Pepper of Hollywood, MD, Kelly Pepper of Somers Point, NJ, Chad (Charlene) Pepper of Black Hawk, SD, Niki Atherton-Ely of Leroy, Laura (Mike) Brunelle of Canton and Karla Benjamin of Athens, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, a special great grandson; Miles, brother and sister-in-law; Jack (Judy) Pepper of Canton, as well as numerous special nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and neighbors.

Besides his parents, Donnie was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law; Tom (Janet) Pepper and an infant daughter.

Visitation will be held from 10;30 a.m. to Noon on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. A funeral service to celebrate Donnie's life will follow at Noon with committal at the funeral home. Burial will be held in the Leroy cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Donald C. Pepper name may be made to the Leroy Independent Baptist Church, 301 Mill Street, Canton, PA 17724. Memories of Donnie and condolences to his family may be shared by visiting www.pepeprfuneralhomes.com

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Donald "Donnie" C. Pepper, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Donald "Donnie" C. Pepper, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

Memorial Donation