James D. Pope

Duane was born May 9, 1927, to Dr. Leon Pope and Nettie Barns Pope in Grand Junction, Tennessee. Duane was married 68 years to the love of his life, Catherine Thomas Pope, which he leaves behind.

Duane was employed by Shelby County Schools for 38 years, beginning his career at Bolton High School in 1947, as basketball and baseball coach. In 1954, he lead the basketball team to the State Tournament in Nashville. He later became principal in 1959 through 1971. After leaving Bolton High School, he worked for the Shelby County School Board until retirement in 1985.

Duane's hobbies were fishing, hunting, and gardening, which he loved dearly.

Duane and Catherine had no children of their own, but he was the father to so many young adults, who admired him greatly for his leadership.

He was a member of Bolton United Methodist Church and an icon in the Bolton community, where he will be sorely missed.

He leaves his wife, Catherine, and nephews, Bill Pope, Sanford Young, Lance Young and a niece, Pat Pope. Duane was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Harvard Pope, 3 sisters, Marjorie Hunt, Ruth Claire Richardson, and Maggie Lee Young and a nephew, James Richardson and a niece, Helen Richardson Black.

The family sincerely thank his caregivers and Crossroads Hospice for their loving kindness and care.

The family will receive friends, Monday, December 11 from 5-8 pm with service to begin at 10 am on Tuesday, December 12, at Memphis Funeral Home on Germantown Road. Following service, burial will be in Grand Junction, Tennessee.

The family request that any memorials be sent to Bolton United Methodist Church Building Fund.