Nathan Lee Pope, Sr.

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Nathan Lee Pope Sr., who entered into eternal rest on July 11, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on January 20, 1940, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, Nathan was the beloved son of the late Wilson Pope Sr. and Mary Riddle Pope. He was raised in Fitzgerald, where he graduated from Fitzgerald High School in 1958. A natural athlete, Nathan proudly represented his school on the basketball and baseball teams.

After graduation, Nathan was drafted into the United States Army, where he faithfully served his country during the Cuban Conflict, rising to the rank of E4. His deep patriotism was a defining part of his character and remained with him throughout his life.

In 1959, following his military service, Nathan began a long and dedicated career at Robins Air Force Base, where he worked as a Computer Operations Supervisor until his retirement in 1996. While working full time, Nathan continued to pursue education and earned his bachelor's degree from Middle Georgia College, a testament to his determination and work ethic. After retiring, Nathan returned to Robins Air Force Base as a contract employee, continuing to contribute his expertise and dedication to the mission he so strongly believed in.

Nathan was a man of many passions. A devoted sports fan, he could always be found watching baseball, football—especially Georgia Bulldogs football—as well as golf and the Atlanta Braves. His love for fishing brought him peace, and his support for youth sports brought him joy. He coached his children’s teams when they were young and rarely missed a game, match, or meet of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was their biggest cheerleader.

Nathan's love for his family and community was unwavering. He was a man of quiet strength, who showed his love through his actions—a generous, big-hearted, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His legacy is one of service, loyalty, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Nathan was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Leigh Anne Hise; son-in-law, Edward James Hall, Jr.; and siblings, Tommy Pope, Buzz Pope, Darlene During, and Linda Carol Smith.

His memory will forever be treasured by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Judy Pope; children, Nathan Lee Pope, Jr. (Debbie), Jeffrey Ray Pope (Kristy) and Teresa Lynn Hall; grandchildren, Joshua Alan Pope, Jonathan Carter (Jordan), Steven Michael Pace (Emily), Erica Michelle Beach (Erik), and Matthew James Hall (Amber); great-grandchildren, Ansleigh, Ashlynne, Jacob, Anna, Hunter, Rylee, Tristan, Elijah, Jackson, and James; and siblings, Kelly Pope, Sr., Jeannette Pope, Terry Pope, and Marty Pope.

Visitation for family and friends will be Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Gateway Fellowship Church of God, with a funeral service immediately following. Afterward, Nathan will be laid to rest in Magnolia Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Nathan Lee Pope, Sr. to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.