
David Curtis Pope
Obituary
David Curtis Pope, 70, of Calabash, NC, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
Born in Cumberland County, NC, on August 1, 1955, David was the son of the late Louis Devone Pope and Peggy Sugg Pope. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Nicholas Aaron Pope.
David proudly served his country for 22 years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. He began his military career in field artillery before transitioning into aviation, where he spent the remainder of his service. A Gulf War veteran and lifelong paratrooper, he was a dedicated member of the elite 82nd Airborne Division. He served with honor, dedication, and a deep loyalty to his country.
After retiring from the Army, David enjoyed a second career as a maintenance manager for Walmart’s Distribution Center in Hope Mills, NC. He remained active in the veteran community as a member of the Calabash VFW. David relished the camaraderie and freedom of the open road as a proud member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG), and embraced life fully through his many hobbies. David found joy in creating jewelry, exploring the outdoors through camping and cruising, traveling, embracing new experiences, and spending time working in his yard.
David will be remembered for his playful sense of humor and love of affectionate teasing. He delighted in giving nicknames like “Sugarpie,” “Tiny Hiney,” and “Punkboy,” and was always ready to pull your leg or push your buttons just enough to “get your goat.” David loved to play with his grandchildren by “thumping” their heads, tapping their shoulders, or pulling on their “pull tails” when they were not looking —small, mischievous gestures that brought smiles and laughter. His lighthearted mischief was rooted in love, and always made you feel special.
David carried a quiet strength within him and a deep devotion to his family. He offered guidance rooted in practical wisdom and life mantras—“there’s no such thing as a free lunch,” “always have a POA,” and “every action has a reaction”—lessons that left a lasting imprint on his children and will continue to guide them throughout their lives. David’s legacy of service, profound love for his family, grit, and tenacity left a legacy that will endure for generations.
David is survived by his loving wife, Annina Fehlandt Pope, and his granddaughter, Caroline Emily Pope, of the home; his son, David Christopher “Chris” Pope (Elizabeth); daughters, Melody Dawn Groves and Melissa Ann Pope (Jesse); brother, Roger Pope (Margaret); sister, Theresa Long (Tim “Cowboy”); fifteen other cherished grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at Crosspointe Church, 7030 Rockfish Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28306, on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 1:00pm. The family will receive visitors beginning at 12pm.
The final resting place will be at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 8220 Liberty Blvd., Spring Lake, NC 28390, at a later date for immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dave's honor to the following organizations:
VFW Post 7288, Attn: Cmdr Wayne Grigsby, 900 Carter Drive SW, Calabash, NC 28467 VFW Calabash Post #7288
The American Cancer Society, Donate to Cancer Immunotherapy Research - Cancer Research Institute
American Heart Association, Celebrate the Life of a Loved One
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