Jerry Pope

Our loving husband, father, son, and grandpa, Jerry Kent Pope, age 68, passed away on July 2, 2013 after a heroic battle against heart failure. He was surrounded by his wife and loved ones.

Jerry was born June 4, 1945 in Mesa, Arizona, to Harold J. and O'Reta Oaks Pope. As a young boy he moved to Vernal, Utah, where he spent the rest of his days. He was preceded in death by his mother and brother, Michael. He is survived by his wife, Connie Sue Belcher Pope; father, Harold J. Pope; son, Kam Kent (Jennifer) Pope; daughter, Audra Daisy (Eric) Yadon; grandchildren, Zack (Jolee) Hilkey, Seth Hilkey, Kenten Pope, Karter Pope and Korbet Pope; brothers, Bob (Julena) Pope, Bill (Marcy) Pope, Chuck (Connie) Pope, John (Denise) Pope; and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry graduated from Uintah High School in 1963 where he lettered in football, baseball and wrestling. He married the love of his life, Connie Sue Belcher, on July 10, 1964. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake City Temple. They have known each other since kindergarten and this year they would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary.

Jerry and Connie are the owners of the 7-11 Ranch Restaurant that was founded by Connie's parents, Edward Warren (E.W.) and Daisy Belcher. Jerry was a member of the Horse Racing Association of Utah. He was an avid supporter of many young people in the Basin. He taught them the value of hard work, supported many in the Uintah Basin Stock Show and was one of Uintah High School's biggest fans. Jerry had a great love for the game of golf and leaves behind many special golfing buddies.

Jerry was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a Sunday School teacher to many young adults who adored him. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. He spent many years with his sweet wife, Connie, and family deer hunting in the book cliffs. He was so proud of his son, Kam and daughter, Audra. One of his greatest joys was his grandsons. He could be found fishing with Zack, hunting with Seth, golfing with Kenten, watching Karter's sports, or simply sitting in the café's office watching a baseball game with Korbet. They were Grandpa Jerry's #1 fans.....and he was theirs.

Grandpa Jerry's unconditional love, endearing smile, and continual support will always be cherished.

He will be missed terribly by all those who knew and loved him. However, we find comfort in knowing that he lives on and we look forward to the day when we will be reunited with him for eternity.

Funeral services were held Saturday, July 6, 2013 at the Maeser Stake Center at 11AM. A viewing was held Friday evening from 6~8P.M. at the Ashley Valley Funeral Home and one hour prior to the services at the chapel. Interment was in the Vernal Memorial Park.