John Allen Pope, 81, of China Spring, peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Memorial Visitation: 2-4PM Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Lake Shore Funeral Home.
John was born on November 28, 1943, in Meridian, MS, and was the only child of John and Catherine Pope.
A proud graduate of Tylertown High School, John furthered his education at Mississippi State University, where he earned both a BS and MS degree in Petroleum Engineering. His lifelong career in the oil and gas industry culminated in his role as CEO of ANKOR Energy in New Orleans, LA.
In 1966, John married the love of his life, Sylvia Breeland. They were married for 58 years and together they raised three children: Wendi, Shelley and Derek.
After moving to Waco in 2019, John became actively involved in Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, participating in the Boundless Love Sunday School Class. He embraced his faith at an early age but rededicated his life to the Lord at age 26, going on to serve as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, and in various other church roles. His passions included reading, traveling, and supporting his grandchildren in their various activities.
John was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John and Catherine.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Sylvia Pope; beloved children, Wendi (Philip Marler), Shelley (AJ Wells), and Derek (Sara); and his cherished ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry on his legacy of love and service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association in John’s memory.
Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708
Print Obituary & Condolences
To Sylvia, Shelley, Alex and family,
We wish our sincere condolences to you and in your time of bereavement. John was special to my family through the years at Taylor Energy. May the Lord continue to be with you and bless all that pertains to you!!!
Ron and Jackie Harvey
To Sylvia and family,
Praying God’s strength and comfort for you during this time.
George and Yvonne Bird
John was a friend, fellow church member, mentor, and later Jim’s boss at Taylor Energy and Ankor. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Sylvia and their family in this time of loss.
Sylvia, I am so sorry to read of John Allen’s death. I have a lot of good memories from Tylertown High School and the two of you. I am sending love and prayers for you and your family.