Richard Wayne Pope, AKA Santa Claus, 71, of Paragould, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2019. He was born February 17, 1948, to William and Syble Pope.  Richard grew up as an only child, and was a proud Dixie Dragon. When he married Linda, he gained 5 brothers and 5 sisters. After retiring from Emerson after 42 years, he worked at Fox Hills Country Club, keeping Simon in check. He was a family man and always put his wife and daughters first. Linda was the love of his life, and he showed an example to all that knew him what true love was. Richard was loved by many, and could always brighten up a room with his big smile and warm heart. He will be truly missed, but he did it his way. Ho, ho, ho!

Richard was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Linda Pope; daughters and sons in law, Kim and Wesley Key, Stephanie and Mark Dickson, Kelly and Chris Warner; grandchildren, Olivia, Dylan Wayne, Cade, McKenzie, Jayden Wayne, Blake, Megan, Jennifer; and one great-grandchild, Madelynn.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 15, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the Center Hill Chapel of Phillips Funeral Home with Mike Archer officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Log Cemetery.

David Giles, Danny Giles, Scott Giles, Jeff Giles, Stan Harris, and Steve Giles will serve as pallbearers. Simon Ramirez and Dave Kuhn will serve as honorary pallbearers.