Leo Pope, 88, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Gordon Hospice House. Born on June 10, 1935, in Iredell County, he was the son of the late Olen Pope and Janie Stewart Pope.

Mr. Pope loved his Lord and Savior. He read his Bible daily and until he became unable he attended Berea Baptist Church in Hiddenite. He had a passion for hunting, fishing and collecting arrowheads, and even enjoyed “Clogging.” Leo loved telling stories of his childhood and spending time with his friends whom he had grown up with. He was also an avid lifetime supporter of the National Rifle Association.

In addition to his parents, Olen and Janie Stewart Pope, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Pope; his sisters, Elgie Whitaker and Dorothy Grisanti; his brothers, Brice Pope and Ray Pope; and his daughter-in-law, Tina Pope.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Gary Wayne Pope, Rickie Lynn Pope, and Timothy Kevin Pope (Tracy); grandchildren, Ray Pope (Jennifer), Kasey Mecimore (Chris), Rachael Cope, Daniel Pope, Elijah Pope (Eli), Tatum Pope, and Leighann Whitson (Cody); great-grandchildren, Kaylee Mecimore, Colton Mecimore, Raelynn Whitson, Ryder Whitson, John Cope, Ben Cope, and Mattie Pope; sisters, Zula Bolick, Loretta Hedrick, Betty Hewitt, Shirley Sigmon, and Eunice Sherrill; brother, Fairley Pope (Carolyn); and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at Shiloh Presbyterian Church Cemetery with Pastor James Lewis officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625 (www.hoic.org).

There are times when it’s difficult to navigate life; the road ahead gets “fogged in.” Our minds get clouded with so many issues and deadlines that we lose sight of the things that make life worthwhile. Slow down and spend time in fellowship ever week. Time spent with your community of faith will clear your mind and refresh your spirit so you can see the road ahead!

Nicholson Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.