James Michael Pope, 66, died July 22, 2026. Born February 12, 1960, in Hermitage, TN, Mike grew up in Old Hickory, TN, carrying with him a steady devotion to faith, family, and country that shaped the way he lived and the way he was loved. He was a resident of Lebanon, Tennessee.
Mike graduated from DuPont High School with the Class of ’78. His lifelong love of learning led him onward to Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN, where he earned a Master’s Degree in History, and later to Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY—paths that reflected both his curiosity and his deep commitment to the life of the mind and the life of the Spirit.
Throughout his working life, Mike served in various roles, including at the Baptist Book Store and the Methodist Publishing House. In each place, he was known for a quiet steadiness and a compassionate presence—someone devoted to doing what was needed, and doing it with care. Bill Johnson, Director of the Audio/Visual Department at Victory Baptist Church, was instrumental involving James in the audio/visual aspects of worship at the church. Ashley Lafont, Children's Ministry Director, allowed Mike the opportunity to minister to the children of Victory. Mike served passionately in these positions with his usual faithfulness.
A faithful servant of Jesus Christ, Mike also helped build the community he cherished as a charter member of Victory Baptist Church in Mount Juliet, TN. His devotion was not simply something he spoke of; it was something he lived—through constancy, kindness, and a heart that made room for others.
Mike was deeply patriotic and loved his country. As a student of history, he held a special admiration for Abraham Lincoln, his favorite historical figure, and he carried that respect for principle and perseverance into the way he viewed the world. And in lighter moments, Mike was, by all accounts, the biggest NASCAR fan on the face of the earth—bringing enthusiasm and joy to the sport he loved.
Mike was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Joe Pope and Lucille Pope; maternal grandparents Ford Eastes and Nellie Eastes; and parents Billy Joe Pope and Mary Katherine Eastes Pope. He is survived by Jane Hamlett, a special family member; and James also leaves behind several cousins, a host of friends and extended family members, residents, staff and night sitters at Viva Wilson Manor.
There will be a Gathering of Family & Friends on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Hermitage Funeral Home. A Celebration of Mike's Life will begin at 12:00 PM in the Tulip Grove Chapel at the funeral home with Pastors Chris Nolan and Chuck Groover officiating. Clay Turnbull, Ian Turnbull, Matt Spurlock, Case Sullivan, John Petty, Landon Vaughn, and Jayden White will serve as Pallbearers. Leon Groves, Tommy Walker, Jason Harlan, Gloria Parvin, Cale Yarborough, and Scott Unland will serve as Honorary Pallbearers.
Following the service, Mike will be laid to rest next to his mother in the Masonic Garden at Hermitage Memorial Gardens. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Pope family by selecting "Add a Memory" at the bottom of this page. Please consider making a donation in Mike's memory to the Victory Baptist Youth Ministry (https://onrealm.org/VictoryBaptistC68450/-/form/give/today) or to The Gideons International (https://gideons.org/donate).
