Obituary of Maggie Pope

Maggie Pope, of Bluffton, SC, passed away on October 15, 2021 after a 25-year battle with cancer.  

Born October 10, 1950, Maggie grew up in Indianola, Iowa.  She earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Drake University in 1972. Following her graduation, she married the love of her life, Michael Pope on Aug 19, 1972.

She subsequently went on to earn her master’s degree in Special Education from Drake University in 1978. She was a proud member of Chi Omega Fraternity during her time at Drake.

She put her degree to good use, nurturing special needs students in both middle and high school, some of whom were the most challenging to handle. Maggie taught, mentored, and loved hundreds of students during her 25 years as a special education teacher. She often referred to them as her “kids” and they adored her. Maggie and Mike raised their children in Des Moines, Iowa before moving to South Carolina in 2006.

Making people feel important and accepted was Maggie’s greatest strength, overlaid by her impeccable taste. She was as stylish as she was kind. She epitomized grace and class in everything she did. Her home stands as a reflection of the person she was – colorful, artistic and beautiful, inside and out.  She loved her family and friends fiercely. Maggie was the ultimate uptown girl.  May a smile come to our faces whenever we think of her. There was energy in her presence that was exciting and comforting.  Those that knew her were blessed whether it was for a moment, a season, or a lifetime.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Mike, her children Megan (Arthur) and Chas (Amy), and beloved grandson Jack.

Maggie will join her mother, Elizabeth McIntyre Mende, and her granddaughters, Grace and Isabelle, in heaven.

A celebration of life will be held in Des Moines, Iowa on Friday, Oct 29^th at the Republic on Grand from 4-7pm and on Saturday, Nov 6^th in Bluffton SC from 4-7pm at the pavilion at Westbury Park. Maggie has requested a true celebration of her life. Wearing black will not be tolerated.  A splash of pink is preferred. Please bring your best memories of Maggie. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to No Foot Too Small. 

You are adored forever, Maggie. Thank you for gracing us with your presence in this life.  We know that you will bless us from above.