David Rupert Pepper

David Rupert Pepper

David Rupert Pepper, 77, of Dover, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Baptist Health Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on May 24, 1949, in Mammoth Springs, Arkansas, to Phillip and Carrie Alice Reaves Pepper.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Alice Saunders; his brother, Doyle Pepper; his brothers-in-law, George, Vernon, and Johnny Ragsdale; and his sister-in-law, Joyce Williams.

Known affectionately by many as "Dr. Pepper," David was a man whose warmth, humor, strong work ethic, and steadfast character left an impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Eudola Pepper and his beloved poodle, Romeo. He also leaves behind his daughters, Tanya Pepper and her husband, Bryan Ayers, of Parks, Arkansas, and Charity Cantu and her husband, Oscar Cantu, of Cave Springs, Arkansas. His memory will be cherished by his grandchildren, Ramzee Miller of Columbus, Ohio; Lachlan Miller of Peach Grove, Kentucky; Marcus Cantu and Alex Cantu of Cave Springs, Arkansas; and Benjamin, Henry, and William Ayers of Russellville, Arkansas.

Additional survivors include his siblings, Margaret Clark of Kansas City, Missouri; Fran Clark of Mountain Home, Arkansas; and Dale Pepper of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. He is also survived by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Lowell, and Fran Ragsdale of Dover; Betty Walters of Dover, Arkansas; Gwenna and James Brandon of Russellville, Arkansas; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Education, conservation, and craftsmanship played significant roles throughout David's life. He graduated from Mammoth Spring High School in 1967, where the school mascot was the Bear. He later earned a Certificate of Achievement in Carpentry and Construction from the Arkansas State Board for Vocational Education in Salem, Arkansas, September 5, 1969. Continuing to expand his knowledge and skills, David completed the Master Conservation Course at the North American School of Conservation in Newport Beach, California, receiving his diploma on December 10, 1970. He subsequently completed his carpentry apprenticeship and was awarded a Certificate of Completion from the United States Department of Labor on September 12, 1973.

David devoted 35 years of dedicated service to Arkansas State Parks and Tourism, where he worked as a master craftsman and skilled carpenter. During his career, he oversaw building projects, renovations, and repairs throughout the entire Arkansas State Park system. Known for his resourcefulness and determination, David was often the person called when others said a task could not be done. Time and again, he found a way to accomplish what seemed impossible. His dedication, craftsmanship, and pride in his work helped keep Arkansas's parks and facilities operating at their very best, creating lasting benefits for visitors, employees, and future generations to enjoy.

On August 30, 1975, David married the love of his life, Eudola Ragsdale, at the Church of God in Russellville, Arkansas, with Reverend Roy Cain officiating. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, family, and unwavering devotion to one another. Their marriage was a testament to love, perseverance, and partnership, spanning five decades of shared memories and blessings.

To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, David and Eudola renewed their wedding vows on August 9, 2025, at Victory Assembly of God in Atkins, Arkansas, with Pastor Mike Chisum officiating. Throughout their 50 years together, David poured his heart and craftsmanship into every home they shared, personally building, renovating, and maintaining each one. His skillful hands transformed houses into homes, reflecting the love, care, and dedication he had for his family.

David found immense joy in God's creation and loved spending time outdoors. Whether hiking, hunting, fishing, or simply exploring nature, he appreciated the beauty of the world around him. He was an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment and a life member of the National Rifle Association. David also believed in giving back to others and faithfully supported organizations such as Tunnel to Towers and numerous charitable causes.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Russellville Family Funeral.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Russellville Family Funeral, with Pastor Mike Chisum and Pastor Michel Brandon officiating.

Pallbearers will be Bryan Ayers, Oscar Cantu, James Brandon, Lowell Ragsdale, Justin Brandon, Nathan Brandon, Roger Raymond, and Phillip Schembra.

Burial will follow at Owens Cemetery in Dover. A potluck luncheon for family members will be held immediately following the burial at 12724 Highway 7 North, Dover, Arkansas 72837.

Arrangements are under the direction of Russellville Family Funeral. Memorial tributes, flowers, and other expressions of sympathy may be directed to Russellville Family Funeral, 2757 E. Parkway Drive, Russellville, Arkansas 72802.

Obituary information and the online guestbook are available at www.russellvillefamilyfuneral.com.