Pope, Donald Nero

Given in loving memory by Don and Emily Holloman

Donald Nero Pope
April 4, 1925 - September 22, 1944

Donald Nero Pope was the first of six children born to Henry T. and Zelma G. Pope. He grew up in rural Johnston County, where he graduated as Salutatorian of his class at Glendale High School. As a student, he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. He was voted "Best All Around Student" in his class. Following graduation, he moved to Norfolk, Virginia to work in the ship yards. Soon after his arrival there, he was drafted into the U. S. Army. As a soldier, he was awarded two Purple Hearts. He was wounded and died in France serving his country.

His younger sister Emily shared these reflections of her brother with the Tobacco Farm Life Museum:

"Even though I was very young and have just a few fond memories of him, he was a person who had accomplishments and goals that I aspired and worked to achieve. While in service, he gave his brothers and sisters an incentive to take on responsibilities and assist our parents with the farm. He sent us an allowance for doing the chores we were assigned, then our parents encouraged us to buy war bonds with the money. As a young child, I saw my mother grieve at this loss, and I did not want to cause her any more sorrow or disappointment."