Regina Marie Decker Peppers peacefully went to her rest on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Shepherd’s Cove in Albertville while surrounded and loved by her family. She bravely fought a battle with cancer for more than six years. During that time, countless prayers were directly answered on her behalf. She was preceded in death by her parents, Katherine and Nicholas McClintock, brother Robby Decker, and foster “adopted” parents Robert and Joan Goodman. She is survived by her two children, Wesley Peppers (Marion) and Ashley Mass (Cody); brothers Nicholas McClintock II, Benjamin Goodman, Michael Goodman, and Robert Goodman II; grandchildren Logan Mass, Charlie Mass, Levi Peppers, and Liana Peppers; several nieces and nephews.
Gina was born on December 14, 1959, in Toledo, Ohio, and graduated from Lakota High School in 1977. She married Denson Gene Peppers on January 5, 1978. She worked in manufacturing and food service management for many years as she raised her family. Gina was a wonderful, loving mother who taught her children essential values and lessons in life. She always created extraordinary experiences for her children and grandchildren. She loved family and longed to spend as much time together as possible.
Throughout her life, Gina was talented in countless ways. In middle school, she was a gifted baton twirler. She was an extraordinary softball pitcher in high school as a junior and senior and played in several adult leagues after graduation. As a team captain, she received the MVP award and regional recognition. Her team often went undefeated in their seasons. Gina coached and mentored youth league teams in later years. She was also an excellent bowler and a captain of several adult leagues. She loved adventure and challenges.
Gina loved God’s creation and the beauty of nature. She hosted hummingbirds in spring and summer, feeding them every day. After several years, hundreds would visit every season. An article was written about it in the Advertiser Gleam. She was the “hummingbird whisperer.” Animals loved her, and she often took in strays rather than seeing them suffer or not have a home. Her fascination and passion for visiting historic lighthouses transferred to joy in collecting scaled models, too. She delighted in cultivating flowers and plant gardens. Tulips were her favorite. Christmas was her most treasured holiday, and she made it memorable every year.
Artistic skill, drawing, and crocheting was incredible gifts God gave her. She created beautifully designed art and crafts that everyone loved. Paintings, drawings, handmade quilts, afghans, and blankets were among the many items she loved to make. She often gave them to friends, family, or others who had blessed her meaningfully.
No person who needed help was ever turned away. She was continuously self-sacrificing toward others, even at a personal cost to herself. Demonstrating great compassion as a caregiver to numerous people in their final days of life was a highlight of who she was. Despite her mischievous red-headed personality, straightforwardness, and unique quirks, she revealed what true sacrificial love was. She cared about every person she met. She loved to laugh and have great fun.
In her final years, Gina desired to tell others of the love and peace she had found in Jesus Christ. She was always willing to share what God had done for her with anyone who listened. Gina was a member of the Piedmont Adventist Church and most recently attended the Rainsville Adventist Church. She loved God more and more every day she lived. Though she suffered many traumas that tested her faith, she had a special gift for overcoming adversity that transformed into love for those around her. Her faith shined more brightly every day until her final day. The last craft she made before her passing was a painted rock with the words “Thank You, Jesus, for loving me.” This is a beautiful tribute to what was in her heart. Her greatest desire was for her family and friends to join her in heaven when Jesus comes again. One of her famous sayings was, “Don’t forget me.” We won’t, Gina, we won’t. We will be together again one day soon in eternity forever.
A memorial service will be conducted at the Rainsville Adventist Church on Sunday, October 13, at 3:00 p.m., with Pastor Don Mackintosh officiating. Family will receive friends and loved ones at 2:00 p.m. A catered bereavement dinner will follow the service. The address is 1958 Main St Shiloh, Rainsville, AL 35986. All are welcome.
