Mary Aileen Mayhew Pope, 84, of Statesville, N.C., died Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at the Gordon Hospice House. She was born in Iredell County on March 13, 1938, to the late Bruce Mayhew and Mary Lillian Morrow Mayhew.

Aileen loved cooking, making quilts, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

Aileen started a new chapter of her life in 1981. With her kids grown and out of the house, she came to the Iredell County Rescue Squad and inquired about how to become a member. She joined the Squad immediately and became the best of friends. Her smile and enthusiasm were astounding. She loved volunteering to give back to the community. She was a faithful member and influenced others to be an advocate for the community. Her service impacted her family as well as younger members. She was awarded Squadsman of the Year in 1987. She resigned in 1990 due to work obligations. She left a lasting impression on many, especially encouraging others to volunteer to serve the community. In honor of Aileen, her family encourages others to volunteer in any capacity to make our community a better place.

Those left to cherish her memory include Hubbert Leo Pope; four sons, Gary Pope, Ricky (Tina) Pope, Jeff Pope and Darlene Estes and Tim (Tracy) Pope; seven grandchildren, Ray Pope, Kasey Mecimore, Rachel Cope, Daniel Pope, Elijah Pope, LeighAnn Whitson, and Tatum Pope; seven great-grandchildren, Kaylee Mecimore, Colton Mecimore, Mattie Pope, Ben Cope, John Cope, Raelynn Whitson and Ryder Whitson; four brothers, Mickey Mayhew, and late Buster Mayhew, late Steve Mayhew and late Donnie Mayhew; and four sisters, Dot Brown, Pat Stewart, Linda Little and late Betty Anderson

A Graveside Service will be held Sunday, July 10, 2022, at 3 p.m. at Shiloh Presbyterian Church Cemetery with Pastor James Lewis officiating.

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Pope family.