John C. Pope, son of the late John W. and Vesta May (Hunter) Pope, was born June 21, 1936, in Willard, Ky., and departed this life Aug. 24, 2021, in Mountain Grove. He was 85 years, 2 months and 3 days of age. John grew up in California and enlisted with the United States Air Force on Feb. 24, 1954, in Los Angeles, Calif. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 3, 1957, at George Air Force Base in California. He then began working for civil services preparing parachutes for the military forces. John was united in marriage to Esther Taylor on June 14, 1958, in Reno, Nev. Four children were born to this union. John later began working as an insurance agent and continued in that line of work until retirement. He and Esther moved their family to Missouri in 1977. John enjoyed being outdoors, especially when hunting and fishing. His greatest passion in life was his family. He loved all children, but his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. He always looked forward to spending time with each of them. John was saved at age 19 in Atwater, Calif., and attended an Assembly of God church all his life. He faithfully served in church through teaching Sunday School and being a deacon. The way he lived his life and loved his Father was an inspiration to others, and he left a heritage for all.
Besides his parents, John was preceded in death by one daughter, Jaylene Pope; two brothers, Gene and Gary Pope; and two sisters, Alberta Bates and Joyce Ujano. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Esther Pope; two sons, John Pope and wife, Marla; and James Pope and wife, Kristin; one daughter, June Louderback and husband, Joe; five grandchildren, John Michael Pope, Amy Emery, Ashley Pope, Julianna Pope and Duncan Pope; four great-grandchildren, Addison Emery, Isaiah Emery, Jackson Pope and Vivienne Pope; and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss him greatly. Funeral services for John Pope were held Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, at 2 p.m. at The House Assembly Of God Church with Pastor Darren Widner officiating. Song selections were “In The Garden,” “How Great Thou Art” and “Go Rest High On That Mountain.” Services and cremation were under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Mountain Grove. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.
