James Harlan Pope

James Harlan Pope, 80, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, July 12, 2026, at his home in Bryan, Texas. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and public servant, Harlan lived a life anchored by faith, family, and service to his community.

Harlan was born December 30, 1945, in Madison County to Ruben and Kathryn Pope. He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized, a foundation of faith that guided him throughout his entire life. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1964.

Answering the call to serve his country, Harlan joined the United States Army in 1964, serving proudly for 4 years, during which he was stationed in Germany. His time in the military deeply influenced his values, instilling in him a profound respect for freedom, justice, and a lifelong love for his country.

Upon returning home, Harlan worked for Goodyear Tire, during this time he met and married the love of his life, Peggy. They were married on October 20, 1974 and recently celebrated 51 wonderful years of marriage, built on a foundation of mutual devotion and deep love. Together, they were blessed with a daughter, Kara, whom they adored.

Harlan soon found his true calling and entered into public service. He joined the Bryan Police Department in 1979 and embarked on a distinguished career in law enforcement. He proudly served the City of Bryan Police Department for 25 years, serving in many positions the majority as a detective before his retirement in 2004. Even after retirement, his dedication to the badge never wavered, and he continued to serve his community as a Deputy Marshall for the City of College Station Municipal Court.

Family was the absolute cornerstone of Harlan’s life. He was a proud, supportive brother who was always there for his siblings, and he cherished his role as a grandfather. He loved spending time with his grandchildren telling stories and discussing hunting adventures.

An avid outdoorsman, Harlan found great pleasure in archery and hunting, and was a long-time member of the Brazos County Archery Club. He enjoyed watching football and listening to his favorite music where he loved all things gospel and doowop. He also loved to share those songs with others.

In his daily life, Harlan was a servant of the Lord in the way he cared for his friends, family, and those in need. He loved his neighbors fiercely and always looked out for his community. Harlan found joy in the simple things: a good milk shake, blue bell vanilla ice cream, spending time with family and meeting former colleagues, who became lifelong friends, for morning coffee. He loved nothing more than to tease those who were the most special to him and always had a witty text to send. He was also known for his thoughtful nature, often sending heartfelt handwritten cards to those he loved.

Harlan is lovingly survived by his wife, Peggy Pope; his daughter and son-in-law, Kara and Jason Shirley; his cherished twin granddaughters, Hannah and Hailey Shirley, and grandson, Jace Shirley; his brother-in-law, Curtis Beckham (Teresa); sister-in-law, Mary Ann Pope; and brother-in-law, Mike Simmons as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruben and Kathryn Pope; his brothers, Olen Pope, Raymond Pope (and sister-in-law Phyllis Pope), Billie Pope, Wallace Pope; and his sister-in-law, Lois Simmons.

He has been joyfully reunited with his beloved parents and brothers in eternal life, where they are together once again.

Visitation: Monday, July 20, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan.

Funeral Services: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan, with Pastor Bill Wiman officiating.

Burial: Committal services with military honors will follow at Steep Hollow Cemetery.