Lloyd Wayne Pope

In Loving Memory of Lloyd Wayne “Wayne” Pope March 31, 1944 – December 25, 2024 Wayne Pope, 80, of Toquerville, Utah, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on March 31, 1944, in Tacoma, Washington, to Oscar Lloyd Pope and Anna Fietta (Martin) Pope, Wayne was the cherished son of a close-knit family. His parents both predeceased him, his father in 1973 and his mother in 1996, as well as many family members and friends over the years. His family takes comfort in their reunion. At age three, Wayne moved with his family from Tacoma, Washington, to Long Beach, California, where he spent his formative years. On June 11, 1965, he married his sweetheart, Valerie Jean Clarke. A man of faith, Wayne was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On their 10th wedding anniversary in 1975, Wayne and Valerie were sealed for eternity in the Los Angeles Temple, a sacred commitment that anchored their lives together. Wayne was a man of contrasts—both simple and deeply complex. His love for his family ran deep, though he sometimes struggled to express his feelings directly. Often, he relied on his beloved wife, Valerie, to be his voice, sharing his concerns and love for his children and family. Wayne cared so profoundly that his inability to solve every problem frustrated him. Yet, beneath his gruff exterior was a heart full of kindness, devotion, and love. Wayne valued the simplicity of family life and often shied away from large crowds. However, he cherished the adventures he shared with family and close friends. Over the years, he created countless memories of camping, boating, dirt biking, and building dune buggies for vacations spent riding through the dunes. Wayne was also an avid SCUBA diver, finding joy and challenge beneath the waves in his younger days. Though his emotions sometimes revealed themselves in complicated ways, Wayne's actions spoke volumes. His passion for providing, protecting, and creating a better life for his loved ones is a testament to his unwavering commitment. He will be remembered for his skills and work ethic and the love and effort he poured into the life he built for his family. Wayne dedicated over 30 years of his life to being a master electrician in California before embarking on a second career as a nationally certified building inspector, serving the communities of St. George and Toquerville. His commitment to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and faith. Wayne’s greatest joy in life was his family. He is survived by his dear wife of 59 years, Valerie, and their five children: David (Kim) Pope, Kenny (Julie) Pope, Timmy (Kristie) Pope, Billy (Emma) Pope, and Michelle (Pope) Markham. He also leaves behind his sister, Laurie (Rick) Eveland, 34 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. He is preceded in death by one precious great-granddaughter, Aniston Winder. Wayne’s love for cars was legendary. The story goes that he had bought and sold over 100 cars by the time he was 25. Whether restoring a classic, fixing up his vehicles, or lending a hand to family and friends with their projects, his passion for engines and mechanics was second only to his love for his family and God. He was known for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering work ethic. Wayne’s legacy is one of service, faith, and unshakeable love. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. His quiet support and deep faith profoundly impacted everyone who knew him. Wayne’s life was a testament to the power of love and hard work, and his presence will be deeply missed but forever celebrated. Funeral Services were held Friday, January 03, 2025.

Lloyd Wayne Pope

March 31, 1944 - December 25, 2024