John Wright "Red" Pope, Sr., age 83, of Watha died Sunday, September 26, 2010 at NC Veterans Home of Fayetteville. Red's family would like to thank their extended family, the staff of NC State Veterans Home, for the compassionate, loving care given to their dad and to them for the past 11 years.

He was born September 9, 1927 in Pender County and was the son of the late James Olin and Lacy Rivenbark Pope. Also lovingly remembered is Red's wife, Betty Blake Pope who died in 1998.

Surviving are his daughter, Sherri Pope Moore of Willard; sons, John Wright Pope, Jr. of Riverview, Fla., Jerry Olin Pope (Joyce) and Jack Tyler Pope (Bonnie) both of Watha; grandchildren, Sean Pope (Linda), Josh Pope, Jay Pope, Sabrina Pope, Scott Moore, Lisa Moore, and Stephanie Moore; ten great grandchildren; brother, James R. "Ray" Pope of Lumberton; niece, Nancy Wilkins (Donald) and nephew, Jimmy Pope (Peaches).

John served his country honorably in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was a member of the W. Dudley Robbins American Legion Post 165. He was a member of Forest Hills Baptist Church.

Red loved his family dearly and was loved in return. He was the best husband, daddy, granddaddy, brother, uncle and friend anyone could ask for. Never meeting a stranger, Red was friendly and could strike up a humorous conversation with anyone. John loved to travel so his profession of truck driver suited him well. For enjoyment he loved the beach and fishing. He was a generous, caring man who had a great concern for others. Cherished memories of Red will forever remain in our hearts.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 29, 2010 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with The Reverend William Hill Pearsall officiating. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Resident Council Fund, mailing address: NC Veterans Home, Att: Beth Skipper, 214 Cochran Ave., Fayetteville, NC 28301.

Condolences may be sent to Red's family by selecting \\"Send Condolences\\" below.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.