Obituary of Helen Marjorie Pope

Helen Marjorie Pope 1929-2020 Helen Marjorie Pope was born in St. Thomas, Ontario to Beatrice and Clark Gates. The youngest of 4, Helen began early with her singing, joining the Earl Terry Choir in London. She also began teaching very early, beginning in Sault Ste. Marie in her early twenties. She soon married and began her family with a son David and a daughter Elizabeth. Her journey continued with her love of music starting her own choir her beloved “Beldettes” and continued to teach private singing lessons. She also continued to participate in her church, music festivals, and home life. However her journey changed and she chose a different path. Later her journey continued to include elementary instruction, and accounting and her new family with Russell (Pope), with whom she enjoyed many years (25+). Together they explored all of North America, frequently wintering in Florida and Arizona with their beloved dog “Chico”. Helen continued to enjoy singing within the community as well as developing skills in particular oil painting, knitting and crochet. Their journey together ended when Russell’s health became difficult, so they set their residence as Strathroy, Ontario In her later years she enjoyed life in Strathroy, in particular her church and many lovely visits from relatives and former students and “her girls” from the choir she began so many years ago. Her journey was not a lonely one because she soon found a partner to enjoy the mutual interests of church and community in Edward Clark. Together they supported each other and found comfort in each other and their faith. Sadly Edward’s health declined after they moved into a Nursing Home together. Helen moved on as well just 4 months after Edward soon after her 91st birthday due to declining health.. Helen was blessed to have many who loved her as well as family including her son David (Bonnie) and their children Colin (Holly), Courtney (Adam), Emily (Marc), and her daughter Elizabeth (Wade). She was fortunate as well to have 4 great-grandchildren. Due to the current social limitations a service will not be held at this time. We ask those that wish to remember Helen do so with joy, and gladness in their hearts as they remember her fondly. Peace be with you and those you love.