David Lamont Pope

David Lamont Pope, 73, passed away on September 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri at Research Medical Center. Born on February 22, 1952, in Hutchinson, Kansas, David lived a life marked by service, devotion to family, and an enduring love for storytelling and laughter.

David began his journey in a Christian household rooted in the Baptist faith - a foundation that remained central throughout his life. He carried those values with him into every chapter of his journey, from military service to entrepreneurship and beyond.

In 1971, David enlisted in the United States Army and served three years on active duty. His commitment to service continued as he joined the Army National Guard Reserves, where he rose through the ranks and retired honorably as a Staff Sergeant Class E-7 after an impressive 30-year military career. His dedication to his country was matched only by his commitment to bettering his community.

Following his military retirement, David channeled his work ethic and leadership into civilian life. He became a certified Environmental Specialist for Water Conservation and owned and operated his own janitorial business. These roles reflected not only his professional versatility but also his deep concern for environmental stewardship and community well-being.

David pursued higher education with some college coursework and earned environmental certifications that supported his later career endeavors. His intellectual curiosity was matched by a vibrant personality - he was known for being charming, witty, kindhearted, and full of life. A natural storyteller with a gift for humor, David loved telling jokes and creating imaginative tales that brought joy to those around him. Music was another lifelong passion; it filled his home and heart with rhythm and meaning.

Above all else, David cherished his family. He shared 55 years of marriage with Celestine Peoples Pope - a bond built on love, faith, and mutual respect. Together they raised a beautiful family: Denise Pope of Atlanta, Georgia; Eric Pope of Houston, Texas; Wesley Pope of Kansas City, Missouri in addition to Monique YeeFoon of Dallas, Texas, and David Pope of Maryland.

David was also a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren and great-grandfather to eleven great-grandchildren - each one touched by his warmth and wisdom. His siblings include brothers Darrell Pope of Hutchinson, Kansas; Kent Pope of Kansas City, Missouri; Gary Pope of Springfield, Missouri; Ronald Pope of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and sisters Sheila Little of Hutchinson, Kansas; Diane Pope and Denise Jessemy of Greensboro, North Carolina; and Tawana Garcia of Kansas City, Missouri; a host of Nieces, Nephews, Friends and Family. He was preceded in death by his father Clifton Pope; mother Erma Pope; and brothers Wendell Pope, Terry Pope, and Michael Pope and his daughter Avona Saba. A

Celebration of David's Life will be held at a later date and time.

David leaves behind a legacy defined by faith in God, love for family, service to country, joy in music and storytelling - and above all - a heart that found happiness in making others laugh. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Visitation will be held at Muehlebach Funeral Chapel, 6800 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO on Wednesday, October 1 from 5 to 6 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at St. John's Missionary Baptist Church 215 S. Chicago Street Salina, KS and a military burial at 1:00 pm at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery at Fort Riley/Manhattan.

The Family is asking that in lieu of flowers those donations be made to the American Cancer Society and/or Kidney Foundation. On behalf of the Pope Family Thank You for your kind words, warm and loving thoughts and Prayers.