Phillip Edward Pepper, affectionately known as " Dr. Pep" or "Pepper" to those who knew him, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2024, at the age of 83, in Matteson, Illinois. Born on June 20, 1940, in Greenwood, Mississippi, to Mildred Harper (Pepper) and Phillip Pepper. He was the 2nd child out of this union. Later Mildred met and married Harold F. McMurry in 1944, who raised Phillip and his sister (Doris Jean) as his own children. The family moved from Durham North Carolina to Indiana. Later the family moved from Indiana to Princeton Park in Chicago, Illinois.

Phillip attended Frank L. Gillespie Primary School and later attended and graduated from Chicago Vocational High School (CVS), where he met and married Joyce L. Johnson. From this union 3 children was born Melissa Pepper-Williams, Phyllis Pepper and Phillip E Pepper Jr.

Following his education, Phillip joined the Chicago Police Department where he worked in Chicago Police Districts 5 and 2 for about 15- 20 years.

Phillip's infectious personality and zest for life were evident in his personal interests. He often called himself the life of the party, with his legendary barbecues and his self-proclaimed title of BBQ King Chef.

Phillip had many challenges in his life during his middle years. During those challenging times he came to the awareness of accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior. Once Phillip had accepted this truth of Jesus Christ for his freedom, he started to turn his life around. He decided to help others that had faced the same challenges and obstacles like himself. Phillip became a support and inspiration to letting others know that they are not alone in their journey to recovery.

Phillip joined The Love of Christ Ministry in Park Forest. One of his favorite books in the bible was St. John 15th chapter.

Phillip's Parents Mildred, Phillip and Harold, his sister Doris, his ex-wives Joyce L and Marilyn L. and granddaughter Raechel Nicole, preceded him in death.

Phillip is survived by daughter Melissa Pepper-Williams of Matteson Illinois, Phyllis Pepper of Harvey Illinois and son Phillip Pepper Jr of Lansing Illinois. 3 grandchildren Antoine Trimuel, Trinity Patrice, Phillip Odell, special grandson Devon Ledell, 2 great grandchildren Tyler and Ayden, Nephew James Parker Jr and a very special childhood friend Olivia Thompson and many other friends.

Special thanks and appreciation to the Ingalls Memorial Hospice Team (LeAnn, Nikki, Amy and Paris) along with the staff at Applewood at Generations Unit 2 staff.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday June 14th. If anyone is interested please contact Phillip's family for further information.