James "Jim" Andrew Pope

Loudon - James Andrew Pope, age 89 of Loudon, passed away Monday, September 8th, 2025, at River Oaks Place in Loudon. Jim was a longtime devoted member of Loudon Church of Christ where he and his wife Jo Ann worshipped and served alongside their church family. Early in his volunteer life, Jim became a member of the Loudon Lions Club in which he held all the various officer positions and where he helped to organize and implement an eye exam program for the children of the Loudon County School system. Additionally, he worked in the club's many other fund raising and service activities. His years of service were recognized when he was named a Melvin Jones Fellow by Lions International. He would go on to serve on the board of directors of The East Tennessee Lions Eye Bank and was named a director emeritus. During his tenure he also served as the president of the Eye Bank. Jim enjoyed farming and was active in the 4H program where he served as the first 4H Club agent of Loudon County. Over the years, many young people benefitted from the instruction received from the Pope family while raising and showing sheep and other livestock. Jim was active in many other endeavors, including serving as the President of the Loudon County Farm Bureau. He and his wife Jo Ann were avid supporters and fundraisers for the American Cancer Society "Relay For Life".

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Jo Ann Reel Pope; his sons, Jerome Pope and John Pope; parents, Andrew Hershal and Virgie Mae (Walker) Pope; brothers, Charles and Hollis Pope and sister, Imogene Deakins.

Survivors include his grandchildren, Andy Pope, Macy (Luke) Starkes, Morgan Pope and Johnna (Deven) Duda; several nieces, nephews and many close and special friends.

Services to honor and remember Jim Pope will be held 7:00 PM Thursday, Sept. 11th, McGill Click Chapel with Mr. Nick Angel and Mr. Jim Thomason officiating. Interment 1:00 PM Friday, Sept. 12th in the Loudon County Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends 5:00 - 7:00 PM Thursday prior to the service at McGill Click Funerals & Cremations, 1366 Hwy 72 N. Loudon. Memorial contributions may be made to Tennessee 4-H Foundation, 100 River Road, #112, Loudon, TN 37774 to benefit the Jerome Pope scholarship.