In Memory Of Mr. Jeffrey Pepper
It is with deep sadness we mourn the loss of Jeffrey Pepper, a longtime breeder, respected American Kennel Club Judge and an advocate of purebred dogs. Jeff was known for his kindness, sense of humor, zest for life and sense of adventure!
Jeff’s amazing journey alongside dogs began in 1968 with the purchase of his very first Golden Retriever. Through the years, Jeff owned and loved many different breeds but also successfully bred Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in addition to his beloved Golden Retrievers under the Pepperhill prefix. Jeff’s love of the PBGV began in 1984; he actually imported one of the very first PBGVs to arrive in the United States of America. Jeff bred over 65 Golden Retriever Champions and 55 PBGV Champions as well as an All-Breed Best In Show Winner and a National Specialty Winner in each of those breeds.
In 1984, Jeff began another illustrious career as an AKC Judge with approval for his original breed, the Golden Retriever. He went on to judge both the Sporting and Hound Groups, Best In Show and of course Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Jeff had the honor of adjudicating at Westminster Kennel Club on multiple occasions including the Hound Group in 2018, the AKC National Championship, Best In Show at the Kennel Club Of Philadelphia and too many prestigious assignments all over the world to mention. Jeff also judged many National Specialties including both of his primary breeds’ – the Golden Retriever Club Of America and the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Club Of America.
Jeff’s contributions to the sport of purebred dogs knew no bounds. Jeff was a founding member of Take The Lead, “a 501c3 dedicated to provide direct services, support and care for all qualified participants in the sport of dogs who suffer from the devastating realities of life-threatening or terminal illness.” Jeff also served as President of the Dog Judes Associaton of America, President of the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Club of America, Vice Presdent of the Golden Retriever Club of America and Treasurer of Take The Lead. Jeff was a mentor to each and every fancier he encountered; he even performed a series of lectures on purebred dogs across 6 cities in China sponsored by Nestle Purina China.
In his personal life, Jeff held a Masters Degree in Social Work and aided troubled children as a social worker for nearly 30 years. He also owned and operated Woods End Kennel for many years in the Northern suburbs of New York City. In his free time, Jeff loved to write! He was a celebrated author of five published books on his favorite subject – Dogs!
Jeff enjoyed orchids, African safaris, and all things dogs! He was an avid photographer and he loved to travel. Jeff will be remembered for his knowledge he gave so freely and his love of laughter and life!
Rest in peace, Jeff. Your kindness, wisdom, and smile will be deeply missed. We send our love and condolences to his family, friends, and the entire dog show community. We have lost an icon.
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