Joseph John Pepe

Patriarch and passionate student of life, Joseph’s journey as a Korean War veteran, door-to-door salesman, manufacturing planner, radio broadcaster, newspaper columnist, and current events blogger was impossibly interesting. As an aficionado of film both foreign and domestic, he was stunningly well-versed in popular culture and never one to turn down a classic noir (or Pinot Noir, for that matter). As a believer in the boundlessness of human potential, he was a staunch champion of America’s space programs. And as an advocate for justice, he was a devoted ally to the disenfranchised and underrepresented, no matter their color, creed, or circumstance.

His love and influence will echo in eternity.

Joseph is survived by his brothers, William Pepe and Thomas Pepe; daughter, Robin Kirk; son-in-law, Bill Kirk; grandchildren, Kara Brewer, Kelli Teague, and Billy Kirk; grandson-in-law, Chris Brewer; and great-grandchildren, Caden Brewer, Lyla Brewer, Chase Teague, and Jenna Teague. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Joseph was preceded in death by parents, John and Anne Pepe; wife, Margaret Pepe; and siblings, John Pepe, Anthony Pepe, Peggy DiPiero, Maryann Micali, and Conchetta Pisani.

A Memorial Mass for Joseph will be held Wednesday, September 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM at McLaurin Funeral Home, 12830 U.S. 70 Business Hwy W, Clayton, North Carolina 27520. He will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Cemetery, 1056 Seashore Road, Cape May, NJ 08204.

The family would like to thank the staff at Johnston Health Clayton and SECU Hospice House of Johnston Health for the care they provided to Mr. Pepe.