Donna Joan Pope, 88, of Jefferson passed away Friday, September 6, 2024, with her loving husband of 69 years by her side. She was born June 1, 1936, in Osceola, to Howard and Gertrude (McNichols) Githens. Joan graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1954. She married Russell Harold Pope on February 12, 1955.
Joan received her bachelor’s degree from California Bible Institute in 1959. With her husband Harold she ministered at Open Bible churches in Janesville, WI, Waterloo, Jefferson, Rockford, IL, Atlanta, GA, and as a missionary in Liberia, Africa from 1964 to 1970.
Joan enjoyed reading, crafts, traveling, and was passionate about Iowa Hawkeye basketball. Most of all Joan loved spending time with her family. Her life epitomized the love of God.
She is survived by her husband Harold; daughter Vicki (Rob) Lundquist; sons Steve (Carol) Pope and Dan (Miriam) Pope; grandchildren Mike (Christie) Pope, Bridget (Will) Herron, and Rian and Caelan Pope; great-grandchildren Breanna, Tyler, and Cody Pope and Joel, Ellie, and Jonah Herron; siblings Carol Patrick, Jeannine Clark, and Jim Githens; nieces and nephews; other relatives; and friends.
Preceding her in death are her parents Howard and Gertrude Githens and brother Conrad Githens.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 New Living Translation – I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me – the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of His return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to His appearing.
A private family graveside service will take place at Resthaven Cemetery in Des Moines, Iowa.
Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, Iowa is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.sliningerschroeder.com.
