PEPPER, Stuart, 95, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at his home in Meade County. Born on July 3, 1929, in Magnolia, Larue County, KY, he was the eldest child of the late Creed and Lois Pepper. From a young age, Stuart displayed a strong sense of leadership, curiosity, and kindness—qualities that would define his life’s work and relationships.
Stuart was a proud graduate of Magnolia High School, where he played on the basketball team that reached the Kentucky State Tournament semifinals in 1947. His love for sports continued throughout his life, not just as a spectator but as a steadfast supporter of student-athletes in the schools he led.
After high school, Stuart pursued his education at Campbellsville College, earning his associate degree before continuing at Western Kentucky University. It was at Western, in an English class, that he met a bright young woman named Anne Robey. She would become his best friend, greatest love, and lifelong partner. They married on December 20, 1952, at Yellow Creek Baptist Church in Daviess County and built a life filled with love, laughter, and service. Their marriage spanned nearly 60 years, ending only with Anne’s passing in 2012—a loss he felt deeply but bore with grace and faith.
In June 1952, Stuart answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Air Force as a Staff Sergeant. He was stationed at Sampson Air Force Base in New York and later at Parks Air Force Base in California, receiving the National Defense Service Medal. His time in the military instilled in him an even greater sense of discipline, duty, and respect for others. After his honorable discharge in June 1956, he returned to Kentucky, eager to make a difference in the field he loved most—education.
Stuart’s passion for learning and leadership was evident from the very start of his career. He became Principal of Hart Memorial High School in Hardyville and, during the summers, worked as a Park Ranger at Mammoth Cave National Park, a job he truly enjoyed. He then served as Assistant Principal of Larue County High School.
His career quickly advanced, and in 1960, he and Anne settled in Brandenburg, where he took on the role of Principal at Meade County High School. Over the next several decades, Stuart left an indelible mark on the Meade County School System, moving from Assistant Superintendent to Superintendent, a position he held from 1970 to 1991.
As Superintendent, Stuart worked tirelessly to improve education, ensuring that every student had access to opportunities for success. One of his proudest achievements was advocating for and securing the establishment of the county’s Vocational/Technical School. He wasn’t just a leader behind a desk—he was a presence in the hallways, the classrooms, the ballgames, and the graduations. His dedication went beyond policies and budgets; he truly believed in the potential of each student and the importance of every educator and staff member.
Even after his official retirement, Stuart wasn’t ready to slow down. He worked as a consultant for the State of Kentucky and served twice as interim Superintendent for Harlan County. Education wasn’t just his career—it was his calling.
Faith was the foundation of Stuart’s life. A devoted member of First Baptist Church (formerly Phillips Memorial) in Brandenburg since 1960, he served as a Deacon Emeritus, Trustee, Building Committee Chair, and a leader in numerous church initiatives. He lived his faith not just in words but in his everyday actions—offering a kind word, lending a helping hand, and guiding others with wisdom and compassion. He truly let his light shine for all to see.
Stuart’s service extended beyond the church and the school system. For over 50 years, he was a dedicated member of the Brandenburg Rotary Club, where he built lifelong friendships and exemplified the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” His contributions were recognized when he received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award for outstanding leadership and commitment. He also was elected as a Meade County Magistrate and spent more than 20 years on the Doe Valley Association Board of Directors, always working to strengthen his community. He served 8 years on the Administrative Board for Baptist Hospital East in Louisville. Additionally, he was honored as a Kentucky Colonel, a title reflecting his lifetime of dedicated service.
Stuart was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anne and his precious granddaughter, Sarah Smith Hottell.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Kittie (Tim) Smith of Brandenburg and Sarah (Dave) Crum of Walkersville, WV—both of whom were blessed to have had him as their role model and guiding light. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joseph (Kimber) Smith, Brent (Lauren) Hottell, Robey (Erin) Smith, Cynthia (Cameron) Mehl, Natalie (Adam) Delwiche, Nicole (Rob) Barrett, Amy (James) Walters, Robert (Caitlann) Crum, and Austin Crum, along with 20 great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy. Also surviving are his brother, Joe Pepper of Crestwood, KY, and sister, Bennye Hines of Florida.
In his later years, Stuart was blessed with the companionship of Leaetta Cannady, a dear and beloved friend who brightened his days.
His family, friends, and the many lives he touched will remember him as a man of unwavering integrity, boundless generosity, and quiet but profound influence. His legacy will live on in the halls of Meade County schools, in the pews of First Baptist Church, and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Service Information:
Visitation: Stuart Pepper Middle School, Brandenburg, KYSunday, February 16: 1 PM – 8 PMMonday, February 17: 9 AM – 11 AMMemorial Service: Monday, February 17, 11 AM, Stuart Pepper Middle School (Reception/Light Lunch to follow)Private Burial: Cap Anderson CemeteryIn lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to:
Oneida Baptist Institute – PO Box 67, Oneida, KY 40972-0067St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital – PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-0050The Salvation Army – PO Box 1809, Somerset, KY 42502-1809Stuart faithfully supported these organizations for many years, a testament to his lifelong commitment to helping others.
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