Charles Keith Pope age 84 of Galax, Virginia passed away Thursday, December 14, 2023 in the Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

Keith was born December 19, 1938 in Galax, Virginia to Dimple L. and Lelia Wilson Pope.

Keith grew up in the Gladeville area of Carroll County. He attended Gladeville Elementary School when it was a two-room wooden structure with first through seventh grade. He transferred to Woodlawn High School where he graduated in 1958.He worked in a local industry for a short period prior to joining the Army in 1962. While in the Army he served in the Military Police. This stint in the Military Police led Keith into his law enforcement career with the Virginia State Police. He started working as a State Trooper in August 1965 and retired in January 1996 as a Master Trooper. He proudly served the citizens of Virginia with dignity and professionalism.

Keith found enjoyment in tending to the needs of his home. He was always accompanied by Otis, his four-legged companion.

He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law Bonnie and Warren Leonard of Galax, Virginia; one niece Angela Leonard of Winston-Salem, North Carolina;  one nephew Jamie Leonard of Galax, Virginia; two great-nieces Lexie Clark of Huntsville, Alabama;  Lily Utt of Roanoke, Virginia;  two great-nephews Garrett Delp of San  Antonio, Texas and Josie Leonard of Galax, Virginia; special cousins Jeannie Gill and Diane McKnight.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday at 2:00 PM in the Vaughan-Guynn Chapel with Garry Boyette officiating. Pallbearers will be the Virginia State Police Honor Guard. Burial will follow in the Oakland Cemetery. Military Rites will be conducted by the Hillsville VFW Post 1115. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 1:00 PM until time for the funeral service at the Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home.