Leonard Ray Pope

Leonard "Ray" Pope, 79, transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly home on Thursday, May 6, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. He was born on January 31, 1942 to the late Norman Lee Pope and Rittie Aycock Pope and was raised on the family farm in Johnston County. He graduated from Kenly High School and Retired from his career after 30 years of service with NC State University in plant pathology, specializing in diseases of apples, peaches, and grapes. He was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist church. In his spare time he enjoyed woodcrafts, fishing, and landscaping.

Surviving: wife, Jan Boykin Pope; children: Shelly P. Averette (Stephen), Matthew Pope ( Amanda); grandchildren Seth Averette, Ethan Pope; Benjamin Pope; brother, Hershel Pope (Wanda).