Our History
Pope Funeral Homes was founded in 1920 by the late Alexander S. Pope, Sr., a licensed professional and graduate of the former Echols Mortuary College in Philadelphia. The original location was established at 315 15th Street S.E., Washington, D.C.
Together with his wife, the late Mary E. Pope, Mr. Pope, Sr. dedicated himself to serving the community with compassion and integrity. Their unwavering support for families in times of need became the foundation and enduring legacy of Pope Funeral Homes.
The couple’s only son, Alexander S. Pope, Jr., proudly followed in their footsteps. A graduate of Echols Mortuary School and Howard University, he also served honorably in the United States Armed Forces for many years until being honorably discharged as a Staff Sergent.
In Loving Memory
Alexander S. Pope, Jr. (d. April 18, 2006) and Sandra Q. Pope (d. February 17, 2002) played pivotal roles in the growth and legacy of Pope Funeral Homes. Following the passing of Alexander S. Pope, Sr., his son assumed leadership of the business, supported by his mother, Mary E. Pope, and his wife, Sandra Q. Pope. Sandra served as the firm’s controller and accountant, overseeing all financial operations and day-to-day fiscal responsibilities. Their combined dedication and hands-on involvement not only strengthened the company’s local presence in the Washington, D.C. area, but also expanded its reputation internationally—particularly through trusted partnerships with foreign embassies for repatriation and shipment arrangements.
In 1992, the Popes had even higher goals and decided to branch into the Maryland community. Mr. & Mrs. Pope, Jr., along with their son Alexander S. Pope, III, a licensed graduate of Catonsville Mortuary School, opened a beautifully decorated facility at 5538 Marlboro Pike, Forestville, Maryland. This facility offered two spacious Chapels seating over 300, Family Lounge Rooms, a Pastor conference area, Memorial Rooms, a casket display, a Family Choices Room and community meeting room.
The story continues with the Pope's family decision to purchase Cemetery Family Burial Sites. Burial sites at sensible prices are now available at Pope Memorial Gardens located within George Washington Cemetery, Adelphi, MD.
In addition to the Funeral operations, the Popes operate a full-time insurance agency with Peace of Mind Funeral Plans. Our plans allow families to pre-select their services and fund them in advance. This saves time, money and unnecessary worries during times of mourning. Please feel free to visit our pre-planning page.
We are continuing to expand over services and locations to serve the community. Moreover, our success has been much attributed to the dedication and professional service of our seasoned team of employees.
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Mr. Larry Simmons, Vice President, Funeral Operations
[email protected] 30 Years of Service
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Mr. Keith Savage, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
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Mrs. Maria Segovia, Vice President, Financial Operations
[email protected] Email 14 Years of Service
