Henry Lewis Pope passed away early July 25, 2013 at his home in Freeland, Wash. He is survived by his wife of 27 years Teresa, his children Samantha, Taylor and Lewis; his father William and his brothers and sisters Frances (Richard), Alfred (Karol) and Gwen (Lee). He was born Sept. 15, 1955 in Sylacauga, Ala. to William and Ambrosia Pope.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Ambrosia.

He graduated from Sylacauga High School in 1973. He was recruited to play basketball at the University of Washington where he graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree in food microbiology.

He was employed by The Boeing Co. for more than 30 years where he was the recipient of the first Network Employee of the Year award for the entire company and a plethora of other accolades.

He volunteered unselfishly in numerous athletics activities including basketball, baseball, softball and football.

He was a positive, humorous and encouraging mentor to countless youth and touched the lives of anyone who came into contact with him. This is one of the reasons why he and his wife were honored as the Hometown Heroes of South Whidbey in 2002.

Donations may be made to the “Pope Family Fund” at any Whidbey Island Bank, or mailed to 5590 S. Harbor Ave., P.O. Box 628, Freeland, WA 98249.

The family would like to publicly thank the South Whidbey and Boeing families who have shown their support for this wonderful man and his family.

A celebration of his life is 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2 at the South Whidbey High School main gymnasium, 5520 Maxwelton Road, Langley.

Friends and family are encouraged to share their stories, pictures and memories at www.caringbridge.org/visit/henrypope