Born in Dunn, NC on March 18, 1937, he was the son of the late Hughie Robert and Alene Thornton Pope.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Mickie R. Pope, and his sister Sybil Pope.
Mr. Pope served in the US Army with the 82nd and 11th Airborne Divisions, stationed in Germany. He was a former three sport athlete in high school, and played football in college and his military service days. He attended NC State University on a football scholarship.
In 1959 he joined the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), and was one of the youngest Highway Patrol officers to serve, and was stationed in Catawba County his entire career. He retired in 1984 after twenty-five years of service with the NCSHP. After retirement, he worked for Western Steer Enterprises from 1986 to 1998.
He is survived by his sons, Wes Pope and wife Beth of Hickory, Bobby Pope and wife Elizabeth of Naples, Florida; five grandchildren: Paris, Ava, Preston, Max, and Bridget, and a brother Harry Pope and wife Faye of Dunn, NC.
Private graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Garden with Reverend Ernie Richards officiating. Burial will follow service.
Memorial gifts may be made to Catawba County United Way, PO BOX 2425, Hickory, NC 28603.
