Mary Elizabeth Pope

Mary graduated from Hixon High School where she was a member of the debate team and served as a faculty representative on graduation night. She later attended business school in Nashville and later, while in her 70’s, she attended FJC in Jacksonville where she maintained a 4.0 GPA.

Mary was also was very proud of her time spent dancing with the Grand Ole Opry. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville Beach for 71 years. She served as the church secretary for 22 years and taught Sunday school classes for 60 years ranging from college career to Sr. adults

She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Ellis T. Pope; daughters, Phoebe (Larry) Bryan of Jacksonville, Anna Ruth (Ray) Cianci of St. Petersburg, FL, Susan (Mike) Ford of Palm Beach Gardens and Becky (Roddey) Caughman of Rock Hill, SC; sister, Johnnye Kiel of Richland, WA; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren

Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Tuesday, March 14, at First Baptist Church, Jacksonville Beach 324 5th St. North. The family will receive friends Monday from 5-7 pm at HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Building Fund of the First Baptist Church, Jacksonville Beach. The family extends their gratitude to the Concierge Team and Community Hospice.