James “Bubba” Pope 12/28/1940 - 06/18/2026
James "Bubba" Pope, born on December 28, 1940 in Union Springs, Alabama, passed away on June 18, 2026 at his
home surrounded by his family in Greenback, TN. Proceeded in his death were his parents William Henry Pope, and
Juanita McCall Sims and his Brother Hugh Pope and sister Anita "Sis" Pope Newsome.
He is survived by his wife, Louise Pope, and his three children: Mike Pope, Karen Pope Stiles, and Amy Pope Goodson
(Ralph). His six grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as "GrandBubba". Lindsey Adams (Corey), Will Pope
(Sarah), Hogan, Nena and Blair Goodson, and Maggie Stiles. And 4 great grandchildren, Emma and Harris Adams, and
Wyatt and Whitley Pope.
Bubba graduated from Troy State University in Troy, Alabama. In his early years he was a salesman for Bonnie Plant
Farm and covered most of East Tennessee selling plants. He was also a State Farm Agent in Union Springs, AL. But In
1974 he moved his family to Maryville, TN where he, and his wife at that time (Sara Berry) started Popes Garden
Centers. His son, Mike and his grandson Will continue the business legacy along with the help of his daughter Amy
Goodson and grandson Hogan Goodson and countless valued employees/friends for more than 52 years.
A very casual celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, June 30th at 11:00am graveside at Morganton Cemetery in
Greenback, TN. Followed by a lunch, under the shade trees, at his Greenback home where we invite all who knew and
loved him and his family to share stories and remember a life well-lived.
The family has entrusted Blount Funeral and Cremation with his final arrangements.
