Edward Russell Pope

      Edward Russell "Russ" Pope, age 87, of St. Johns, MI, passed away Saturday, August 23, 2025.
       A Graveside Service will be held at Mount Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, MI at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, with Pastor Judy Hazle officiating with military honors being offered.
       Russ was born in St. Johns, Michigan on March 25, 1938, the son of Raymond Cyrus and Sarah Alice Irene (Georgia) Pope. He was a graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School and later earned a Master’s Degree at Central Michigan University. Russ married Sally Crowell on June 30, 1962, until her passing October 10, 1989.
      Russ worked as a Guidance Counselor and Teacher at Ovid-Elsie High School, he also served as Head Football Coach and Student Counsel Advisor. He will be remembered for paving most of the sidewalks and driveways in St. Johns and surrounding communities. Russ loved to gamble and play pinochle with his friends at Dershey's. He also loved fishing at Turk Lake. He will also be remembered for his many St. Bernard's which were all named Jake, that would be seen riding in the back of his truck throughout town. He also spent much of his time working on his rental properties in St. Johns. Russ served his country in the U.S. Army in southeast Asia, once returning home he served in the Army Reserves. He was an avid Detroit Lions, Tigers, University of Michigan, and Michigan State fan. Russ was an avid reader of books and newspapers. Russ was very proud of his children and grandchildren, their accomplishments and how they were doing. His family was dear to his heart. He was one of the longest members of the American Legion.
     He is survived by his son Ross and Carrie Pope of St. Johns, MI; daughter Julie and Tom Manzagol of St. Johns, MI; son Mark Pope of St. Johns, MI; his companion Janet Taylor of St. Johns, MI; his grandchildren: Aidan Pope, Meg Pope, Jack Pope, Caroline Pope, Henry Pope, Mitch and Tate Manzagol; brother Jim Pope, of Flint, MI. Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Irene Pope, his wife Sally Pope, his brothers: Lyle Pope and Raymond Pope, Jr. also his bonus son Denny Cole.
       Memorials may be made to Edwin T. Stiles American Legion Post, 153 110 E. Walker Street, St. Johns, MI 48879. Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.