Rev. Kelly Eugene Pope

Rev. Kelly E. Pope, 77, of Brandon, MS was born March 16, 1947 to Willis and Elza Pope. He was welcomed into Glory on August 29, 2024.

Kelly married the love of his life, Sherrell, in 1967. They were happily married for 57 years.

After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Kelly attended seminary at the Candler School of Theology (Emory University) in Atlanta, Georgia. He was a gifted vocalist and loved using his gift of singing with the Candler Choraliers. 

Kelly was an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church and served faithfully in the MS Conference of the United Methodist Church for over 50 years. He was still serving churches up until his recent illness. He served churches all over the state of Mississippi, and his love for God is what fueled his fun approach to doing ministry and making disciples. Kelly enjoyed all of his appointments and loved being in service with so many wonderful people. He was well known for his preaching, singing, love for God, and love for people. 

Kelly and Sherrell shared an amazing love and bond. His love for family had a huge impact on the whole family unit. Kelly was a father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many. We will all miss him dearly, but we thank God for gifting him to us. 

Kelly is survived by his loving wife, Sherrell Pope; son, Rev. Michael-John Pope (Dena) of Byhalia, MS; daughter, Shellie Pope Davidhizar of Ocean Springs, MS; 2 granddaughters, Shelbie Davidhizar and Lowrie Davidhizar; 2 grandsons, Conner Harmon and Dylan Davidhizar; 1 brother, Duane Pope (Teresa) of Brandon; 1 sister, Nita Goldman (Randall) of Brandon; and numerous other family members that he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Vi Jones.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Monday, September 2, 2024, at Brandon First Methodist Church (205 Mary Ann Drive, Brandon, MS) with visitation from 2:00-4:00 pm and service to follow at 4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Methodist Children’s Home of Mississippi, 805 North Flag Chapel Road, Jackson, MS 39209.