Andrew Mark Pope

Andrew Mark Pope, a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, grandson, and devoted follower of Jesus Christ, entered into the eternal embrace of his Savior on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take profound comfort in knowing that Andrew’s faith has become sight, and he is resting peacefully in heaven.

His Early Life and Resilience

Andrew was born on July 18, 1985, at Medical City Dallas to his loving parents, Mark and Kay Pope, while the family resided in Irving, Texas. He was their cherished second child. Growing up, Andrew faced early challenges with hearing and speech, but with his family’s fierce advocacy, he consistently defied the odds. Andrew persevered through mainstream schooling in CFISD, proudly graduating from Creekview High School in 2004. Andrew’s early life was a testament to his quiet resilience and determination to find his way in the world.

A Journey of Creative Passions

Andrew possessed a vibrant, enthusiastic spirit and pursued several creative passions throughout his life. He had a deep, lifelong love for professional wrestling, stepping into the ring under his proud stage name, "Drew Late." Andrew also discovered a love for the dramatic arts; he took formal acting lessons and was incredibly proud to earn an official credit as an extra in the movie The University of Las Colinas. His talent and dedication even led to him being cast in a lead role for an independent film, a special chapter of his life just prior to his health challenges.

A Heart for Others and Faith Restored

Always eager to learn and try new things, Andrew attended the North Texas Job Corps a couple of years after high school, where he proudly earned his culinary certification. While his professional path was a winding journey with various stops along the way, Andrew's true calling was always found in how he cared for the people around him. He possessed a tender, giving heart—often wearing his heart on his sleeve and loving others unconditionally.

Andrew’s life was deeply shaped by trial and triumph. He carried the quiet memory of a lost infant son, Adam, born on November 4, 2010, whom Andrew faithfully remembered and celebrated every year. In January of 2021, Andrew survived a critical aortic dissection and underwent a grueling six-month hospital recovery. While those days were filled with uncertainty, God granted Andrew’s family a beautiful gift: five subsequent years of Andrew living back at home with his parents. Those five years became a treasured season of closeness, healing, and shared memories.

During this time, Andrew found a vibrant spiritual home at Prestonwood Baptist Church. Over the last four years, he became a fixture in the Singles Ministry and poured his heart into serving with the "Special Friends" ministry. Andrew’s love for Jesus was unmatched, and he channeled his own life struggles into a profound empathy for others, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Love and Legacy

Two years ago, Andrew’s life was forever changed when he met Julia. He fell deeply and completely in love with her, and their bond culminated in their beautiful wedding on April 25, 2026. Though their time together as husband and wife was far too brief, the joy, love, and devotion they shared brought an abundance of light and fulfillment to Andrew’s final years.

Andrew’s legacy is defined not by the world's standard of success, but by the stories of his boundless love, his willingness to help anyone in need, and his faith that sustained him through every valley.

Andrew was preceded in death by his infant son, Adam.

He is survived and deeply missed by his wife, Julia Pope; his devoted parents, Mark and Kay Pope; his sister, Amanda K. Massaro and her husband, Danny; his beloved nieces and nephew, Adalynn Brooke, Hadley Paige, and Ashton William; his grandmother, "Grammie" Nita Bedingfield; and a community of friends and faith brothers and sisters who were touched by his generous spirit.

A visitation and funeral service for Andrew will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at The Branch Church - Farmers Branch located at 3035 Valley View Ln, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 at 1:30 pm - 2:45 pm and 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm respectively.

A committal service will take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 12:00pm at Downing Cemetery 9101 TX-16, De Leon, TX 75444.