Grady Pope Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in his home surrounded by family. He was born on January 27, 1947, and lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and love for those around him.
Grady was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, and the bold way he showed up for family. He valued hard work, and a do it yourself attitude—lessons he carried throughout his life and shared ardently with those he loved. He was fiercely dedicated to his beloved wife of forty years, Janet. A sentiment she returned that was evidenced by her devotion to him until the end.
He was preceded in death by his parents Grady Lee Pope Sr., and Noreen Pope; and his sister Carolyn Yarum.
Grady is survived by his wife, Janet Pope; his children, Tara Pope, Brandon (Alicia) Pope, Lainey Keller, Mollie (Zack) Dockery, Grady Lee Pope III “Trey” (Brittany); his grandchildren, Raelynn Dockery, Avery Pope, Lillie Daves, Beckett Keller, Owen Lawson, Rowan Dockery, and Journie Pope as well as many other extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
He will be remembered for his love of Alabama football and Atlanta Braves baseball, rivaled only by his passion for youth sports. When his children played, he immensely enjoyed coaching and later had a passion for coaching his grandchildren from the sidelines whether they liked it or not. Affectionately known as “Grumpy” to his grandkids, he was a fierce and steady presence in their lives. Grady leaves behind a legacy of turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, not listening to the radio in the car, and generally being lovingly grumpy with a “long suffering” air of humor enjoyed by all who knew him.
The family conducted a small private ceremony in his honor and appreciates the love, prayers, and support during this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you (loudly) support your children or grandchildren in youth sports and think of Grumpy any time you yell at a ref or ump for a bad call.
