Constance Pope

When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in gloom-filled rooms. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little—but not too long, and not with your head bowed low; Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me—but let me go. For this is a journey that we all must take, and each must go alone. It’s all a part of the Master’s plan. A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick at heart, go to the friends we know, and busy your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me— but let me go. Today we are here to celebrate the life of our mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Constance Rucker Pope. Constance, affectionately called Connie, was the eldest child of six siblings born to the late Margaret (Nana) and James Rucker. On Monday, May 14, 2018, Providence granted Connie what life could no longer give - health and wholeness. Her body simply could no longer serve her and in faith we affirm God gave her eternal life. Connie was educated in the Philadelphia school system and she graduated from William Penn High School. In 1951 she was employed by the Federal Government as a clerk typist where she excelled and reached the speed of 100 words per minute. In less than 10 years she was promoted to supervisor of Contractual Typist and Reviewers. After serving for over 34 years she retired from the government in 1987 as a Supervisor Supply Technician in Foreign Military Sales. In March of 1955 Connie married James Joyner Pope and to this union, two beautiful daughters were born, Margurite and Carolyn. She and James helped raise her nephew Nate who is now deceased. Connie has also served as a mentor to the friends of her daughters, often offering them valued advice on finances, marriage and life in general. Connie always recognized Christ’s presence and covering over her life. It was later in life that she began to cultivate her relationship with God here at New Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, under the spiritual leadership of Reverend, Dr. Anderson Foreman Jr. Having served on the Trustee and Missionary Ministries, and the Senior Choir, Connie was a faithful servant and giver to many. Connie had a strong love for God, her Pastor, and her Church. Until her health no longer permitted, Connie was an active participant in Sunday-School, and Wednesday Night Bible Study where she enjoyed participating in lively conversations on the lessons being taught. Connie will be greatly missed by her daughters, Margurite (Nathan) and Carolyn, four grandchildren, James (Camille), Lauren, Nathan, and Ashley, three great grandchildren, Siani, Elliot, and James Jr., two sisters, Sylvia and Marian, a host of nieces and nephews and other family members. She is predeceased by her husband James, her parents, her brothers Larry, Nathaniel, and Kareem. For all who knew and loved her she will forever be a light that cannot be darkened. Connie will forever glow in our lives. Lovingly Submitted, The Family

Constance Pope

August 13, 1932 - May 14, 2018