Lawerence Joseph “Larry” Pope, born December 9, 1957 was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, husband, and friend. Larry passed away August 9, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.
Larry was born to Robert Joe Pope and the late Shirley Jean Pope.
Larry is survived by father; his brother, Todd Pope and his wife, Mary; niece, Holly Pope Carroll and her husband, J.B.; nephew Christopher Pope and his wife, Krystal; and their two sons, Zephyr and Archer. Larry was a proud father to his two daughters, Heather Mays of West Plains, Missouri, and Laura Ellis of Willow Springs, Missouri, and father-in-law to Darin Ellis. His greatest joy was being a grandfather to his five grandchildren: Jarett Lindsey of West Plains, Missouri, Zoei Lindsey, Makenzee Ellis, Emilee Ellis, and Adalyn Ellis of Willow Springs, Missouri. His grandchildren held an incredibly special place in his heart, and the memories they shared with him will live on for generations.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Jean Pope, who passed away February 12, 2013. His beloved wife, Cathy Goodall Pope, preceded him in death on November 24, 2024.
Larry spent much of his working life providing for his family. When he was younger, he worked alongside his mother in her beauty supply business until her declining health led to its closure. He later worked as a forklift driver for Welsh Baby Carriage Company in St. Louis and also worked at the racetrack in Madison, Illinois. Larry proudly served his country as a United States Army Veteran. He had many things he enjoyed throughout his life, but few things brought him as much happiness as racing and NASCAR. He loved cars and enjoyed building model cars, which became one of his favorite hobbies as his health declined. Larry also loved to cook, and his family will forever remember the meals he prepared and the memories made around the table. Larry was a man who found joy in the simple things his family, his hobbies, good food, cars, racing, and the memories he made along the way. Though his time with us has come to an end, his love and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, family, and friends.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and never forgotten.
