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Herman Charles Pegues, Jr., affectionately known as "Pee-Wee," was born on April 21, 1960, in Oxford, MS, to the late Herman Charles Pegues Sr. and Lillie Beatrice (Smith) Pegues.
He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church at an early age. Later, he transferred his membership to East Saint Peter Missionary Baptist Church in Abbeville, MS, where he remained dedicated until his passing. He was an active member of the Male Choir until his health declined. Known for his exceptional grilling skills, he enjoyed cooking for the Youth Department, Vacation Bible School and Pastor Appreciation celebrations whenever called upon.
Herman graduated from Oxford High School in 1979. He married the love of his life, Elaine Thompson, on July 15, 1989. From this union one child, Gregory was born, they remained happily married until his passing.
During his high school years, Herman gained valuable work experience at Georgia-Pacific. Later, he found employment at Whirlpool and Winchester. He also ventured into entrepreneurship, owning his own auto repair shop for several years. Herman enjoyed fishing, visiting casinos with his brothers, collecting shot glasses, watching the Dallas Cowboys, and grilling for his family. He was so passionate about grilling that his loved ones affectionately called him the "Grill Master." He eventually retired from Winchester due to health challenges. Despite his declining health, Herman remained passionate about working on cars and found joy in maintaining his yard.
Herman peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North MS, surrounded by his beloved family. He fought valiantly throughout his life, and now he has been welcomed home by God.
Herman leaves behind a legacy of love and strength that will be cherished by his devoted wife of 36 years, Elaine Thompson-Pegues, of Oxford, MS: three (3) sons, Gregory Charles Thompson and Anthony Smith of Oxford, MS and Justin (Kyra) Campbell, Denver, Colorado: fur baby, Oscar: four (4) brothers, James Wesley Pegues (Joyce) of Water Valley, MS, Markus (Lisa) Pegues and Mark Pegues of Oxford, MS and Harmel Pegues (Shanta) of Batesville, MS: two (2) sisters: Brenda Pegues of Winder, GA and Marilyn Pegues of Oxford, MS: three (3) aunts: Leona "Sally" (Chester) Starks of Oxford, MS, A V Goolsby of St. Louis, MO and Alice Bonner of Oxford, MS: two (2) uncles: Dewey Pegues and Kenneth (Jeanette) Pegues of Oxford, MS: a special son, Jamarris (Latonya) Sims of Houston, MS and best friend, Aaron McCullough of Maryland: two grandchildren: his in-laws, Burnice "Becky" Thompson, Mae Rita Thompson and John Henry (Jessie) Thompson; and a host of nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Herman Charles Pegues, Sr. and Lillie Beatrice Smith Pegues: his sister, Sharon Pegues and brother, Charles Kimmons.