Opal Peppers Obituary (1945 - 2023)

Opal Lee Peppers, known as Opal to her family, friends, and anyone she met at the Niles Senior Center, departed this life on September 22, 2023. Opal was a resident of Buchanan and Niles, Michigan for 77 years and was a woman of many talents, but she was best known for her love of gameshows, her prowess at the pool table, and her unmatched socializing skills. Born on November 27, 1945, Opal was a factory laborer by trade but a comedian at heart. As someone once said, "You don't quit laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you quit laughing." Well, Opal never quit laughing. She was a funny, loving, spirited, and witty woman who brightened any room she entered. This was evident in the lifelong friendships she forged, especially with June Weston and Delphine Ford, among countless others. Opal's love for her family was paramount. She was a rock to her three sons, Joe Osban, Billy (Shear-Ries) Osban, and Kevin (Dawn) Frampton. She found great joy in her 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, who will remember her fondly and miss her dearly. Opal was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy Osban and Opal Hayes, her brothers Claude and Lee, her sisters Mary Leotta and George Ann, and a grandson. Opal's life will be celebrated on Sunday, September 24th at Kubiaks Tavern, 319 Stateline Road, Niles, MI at 2:00 PM. It promises to be an event filled with laughter and memories, much like Opal herself. As Mark Twain once said, "The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time." Opal certainly lived fully and was an unforgettable presence in all our lives. We encourage everyone to share their memories and upload photos of Opal to her memorial page. She will forever be remembered in our hearts and her spirit will continue to bring joy and laughter to all who knew her. In leu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donations toward help with funeral costs.