Donald “Don” Howard Pope, 84, passed away July 18, 2026, in Longview, Texas, under the care of Hospice Plus at Longview Hill Nursing Center and Rehabilitation. Born in Kilgore, Texas, on June 5, 1942, he was the only child of Woodford Aubrey Pope and Mary Frances Hunger Pope.

Among his treasured memories was growing up in Gulf Oil Camp, where he developed lifelong friendships. Friends remember Don’s reserved personality. He was very quiet; however, when he smiled, it meant something special. He grew up attending First Baptist Church, Kilgore, where he was baptized. Except for one year, he attended Kilgore schools.

A 1961 graduate of Kilgore High School, Don was a talented athlete. A three-year member of the football, basketball, and track teams, he excelled in all of these sports. His classmates elected him most handsome three consecutive years. He also served on the prom committee. Following graduation, he attended Kilgore College for two years and Stephen F. Austin State University for one year. He then moved to Morgan City, Louisiana, where he began working offshore. Later, he worked in oil field services in Houston and Dallas. When he returned to East Texas, he was employed by Material Control Expediting and traveled extensively with his job until he retired. He enjoyed golfing and dancing.

Don was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by a cousin, Theresa Nagel and husband Frederic of Susanville, California.

To honor Don, a Celebration of Life service, led by members of the Kilgore High School Class of 1961, will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the Rader Funeral Home Chapel, 401 N Martin St, Kilgore, Texas.