Pepper Locklyn Cooley passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024, with their beloved son by their side. Born on October 6, 1965, in Suffolk, Virginia, to William Sr. and Carol Jean Harrell, Pepper was the youngest of five children. At a young age, Pepper moved to Rhode Island, where they grew up and attended LaSalle Academy. Pepper later graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a bachelor's degree in social work. Pepper spent their career as a counselor, sharing life experiences and helping others who faced similar challenges.

Pepper was known for a larger-than-life personality and was truly the heart of every gathering.Pepper found joy in cooking, singing, and dancing with family and many friends. A self-described "show stopper, jaw dropper, and panty popper," Pepper lit up every room. Pepper’s personality was as big as their iconic hair, and Pepper’s spirit was as vibrant as the dare-to-compare outfits they loved to wear. Pepper had a radiant soul, spreading love and
kindness throughout the city. Pepper was a proud and devoted member of Project Weber/Renew’s Beyond the Understanding of Gender support group, where they dedicated time and love uplifting others and being a supportive member of the transgender community. A community which helped Pepper throughout their transition journey, creating, in her words “A sense of belonging.” Pepper said again, “I can’t stress that enough: a sense of belonging. A safe haven where it’s okay to be ourselves.”

Pepper's memory will be cherished by their only son, Dana Hammond, and grandson, whom they loved dearly. Pepper is also survived by their parents, William H. Harrell Sr. and Carol Jean Harrell of Suffolk, VA; sisters, Phyllis Laverne and Princess Evonne Ricks; brother, Christopher Harrell; Pepper’s loyal dog, Whiskey, all of Providence; a host of paternal siblings, nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Pepper was preceded in death by their daughter, Evelyn Carol Barnes, and brother, William Harrell Jr.

Family, friends, and all who knew Pepper are invited to send flowers and join in celebrating Pepper’s life on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 4pm-7pm at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave. Lincoln RI.