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Willie James Pope, age 83, of Erie, died on Monday, February 1, 2016, at his residence. He was born in Laurel, Miss., on October 22, 1932, a son of the late Doyle and Bethena Grayson Pope.
He graduated from Academy High School and served in the U.S. Navy.
Willie was employed at Kaiser Aluminum for more than 20 years.
He was a member of Second Baptist Church, and Smith-Barney Post #700. Willie enjoyed hanging out with his buddies, golfing, basketball and baseball (he was a Cleveland Indians fan).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers: Larry, Raymond, John and Caesar and six sisters: Cebelle Turner and Bernice Pope, Chicago, Ill., Maebelle Siew, Lorraine Pointer, and Avalon Wright of Erie, Pa. and Charlene Pope of Laurel, Miss.
Survivors include his wife of 17 years, Catherine Bridgett Pope, three sons: Willie J. Pope, Jr. of Spokane, Wash., Darrell L. Pope of Chicago, Ill., Gerald A. Pope (Valentina) of Seattle, Wash., a stepson, Andre Bridgett (Sarah) of Erie, two daughters: Sabrina Pope of Denver, Colo. and Stephanie Sherrod (Larry) of California, one brother, Clarence Pope, Chicago, Ill., and one sister, Betty Lyons (Jetson).
His grandchildren are: Darrell Jr., Danitra, Davonte, Anthony, Dominique, Jhane, Tiauna, Sheldon and great-grandchild, Isaiah. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Rosey Pope (Ceaser), Charlene Pope (Larry), and Mary Pope(Raymond).
Friends may call at the Second Baptist Church, 757 East 26th Street, on Monday from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. with Reverend Allen B. Green officiating, followed by full military honors.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 602 West 10th Street.
Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com.
Sign the Guestbook at www.GoErie.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Renae Hicks
February 13, 2016
CAT AND FAMILY, SORRY TO HEAR OF BILL PASSING. I WAS BLESSED TO HAVE KNOW BILL. HE FAMILY GET TOGETHERS,PLAYING CARDS AND JUST TO BE AROUND HAVING FUN. BILL WAS A LOVING PERSON. BILL IS IN HEAVEN WITH OUR OTHER LOVE ONES WHO WENT HOME EARLY. LOVE GOD BLESS. MISSIONARY RUTH E. TOLBERT, BRIDGETT(SISTER-IN-LAW)
RUTH BRIDGETT
February 11, 2016
Bill will always be "Bo Jack " to me. We go back as kids playing in Mississippi and living in the same building in Erie on 12th street. He would sing with our band from time to time. I will miss my old friend. My deepest sympathy to the family. I will light a candle at home for Bill.
Aubrey Dillon
February 8, 2016
I so enjoyed spending time talking with my neighbor Bill.
His stories were entertaining and reflected the person he was.
I'm going to miss spending time talking and enjoying his company.
"Always Remembered ~ Never Forgotten"
Khaleed Amon
February 8, 2016
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
SHARON HENDERSON
February 8, 2016
I'm glad I got to speak with Willie a few years back. I now live in NM and didn't attend the last reunion, and spoke with him by phone. I remember Willie from Academy and always enjoyed talking with him. He will always be remembered by me as a truly great guy. Please accept my condolences. I'm sure he will be greatly missed.
Anne (Jonezy) La Lopa (Nowakowski)
February 7, 2016
My sincere condolences to the Pope Families. Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time may the grace of God sustain you all.
Best Regards!
Audrey Carter
February 7, 2016
Our Deepest Sympathy to the Pope Family
LaVerne, Bill Pryor and Family
February 7, 2016
My condolences are extended to the family of Mr. Willie James Pope.
Panchitta Robinson
February 7, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you Darrell, and your entire family at this sad time. May God continue to bless you all.
Daphne Johnson
February 7, 2016
Uncle Bill you will truly be missed by many of us. Rest in Peace and keep that beautiful smile.Love from Sherri,Tu-Tu, Tim, Quincy,and Maleek.❤❤❤
February 6, 2016
Willie, Darrell & the entire Pope family, my condolences to you all. May the Lord of all Glory give you peace in this difficult time.
Haven't seen you guys since the Troop 100 days! I still have the neckerchief you designed. You both are fondly remembered, friends.
Michael Merry
February 6, 2016
My prayers are with my Extended Family during this time. Nothing but wonderful and memorable moments.
Colleen Rush
February 6, 2016
RIP CUZ. You will be missed.
Michael Clark Sr.
February 6, 2016
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