Jerry Wayne Pope, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, farmer, fisherman, storyteller, and friend, passed away Friday, June 5, 2026, in Tyler, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Daingerfield, Texas on September 30, 1943, to Henry and Hautence Pope, he lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, humor, and genuine kindness. A lifelong farmer and gardener, he found joy in tending the land, spending time with family and friends, and sharing stories that could make anyone laugh. He never met a stranger, and those who knew him quickly became friends.

Fishing was one of his greatest passions. He spent countless hours on the water and earned a reputation as a local fishing legend. His love for the sport was so well known that Wright Patman Fishing recently honored him with a tribute featuring his name and photograph on its Facebook page. Yet for him, fishing was never just about catching fish—it was about friendships, stories, and creating memories with those he loved.

Known for his generosity, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether sharing produce from his garden, giving gifts, offering encouragement, or quietly helping someone in need, he believed in caring for others. He also enjoyed staying connected through the many texts he sent to family and friends, often sharing a joke, a rain report, or simply letting someone know he was thinking about them.

His love extended beyond traditional family ties. Alongside his wife, Teresa, he welcomed Chelsea and Jack Lilley into the family and loved them as grandchildren. For many years, they did not realize he was not their biological grandfather—a reflection of the love and devotion he showed them.

In the days since his passing, family members have been overwhelmed by the stories shared by friends, neighbors, and fellow fishermen. Many have called him a fishing legend, but those who knew him best understand that his greatest legacy was not the fish he caught but the lives he touched. Time and again, people have spoken of his kindness, generosity, and the positive impact he had on them.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Teresa Pope; his son, Jerry Don Pope and son-in-law Rick Truman of Kansas City; his daughter, Amy Ashley of Omaha; his son-in-law Brandon, who was more like a second son; his grandsons, Seth and Brody; Chelsea and Jack Lilley, whom he loved as grandchildren; his brother, William Pope of Omaha; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Hautence Pope, and his sisters, Carolyn Pope, Janetta Elder, and Ruth Frost.

His life was measured not by what he accumulated, but by what he gave away—his time, kindness, laughter, wisdom, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Harrison Funeral Home in Naples, Texas.  Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 15, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Omaha, Texas with Rev. Keith Lauter officiating.  Interment will follow at Omaha Cemetery in Omaha.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Omaha, Texas.