In Memory of Lyman Pope Jr.: His Love for Animals Lives On

We’ve struggled to find the right words to fully capture what Lyman Pope Jr. meant to all of us at Pope Memorial Humane Society.

When we learned of his passing, we knew the world had lost a remarkable advocate for animals, but his legacy lives on. Lyman wasn’t just a supporter of Pope Memorial Humane Society; he was part of our foundation. His belief that every homeless pet deserves safety, comfort, and love helped shape the shelter we are today. His generosity, vision, and compassion made a lasting impact that continues to touch every life that passes through our doors.

Lyman changed this place quietly, profoundly, and for the better. His legacy is reflected in the work we do every single day, and we will carry it forward with purpose and pride.

With the blessing of his family, we share his obituary below to honor a remarkable life devoted to making the world kinder for animals and for people.

Lyman B. Pope, Jr passed away of old age just 3 months shy of his 97th birthday at home on 7/22/2025 with his German Shepherd, Sadie, by his side. Lyman was born on October 25, 1928, in Haverhill, MA, the son of Gladys G. and Lyman B. Pope, Sr. Lyman grew up in Bradford, MA and attended Bradford schools, Tilton Academy, Tilton NH, and Wentworth Institute, Boston, MA. He served with the Army’s Military Police during the Korean War and was discharged with honor in 1952. After the Army, he sold Buick automobiles in Haverhill, MA and Palm Springs, CA. and later sold wood heel manufacturing machinery to shoe manufacturers throughout New England and beyond. 

In 1959 he married Patricia Perkins Strauss of Ogunquit, ME and they raised their family in Andover, MA. When the shoe industry declined, he then sold machine tools to automotive, aircraft, and defense manufacturers including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Pratt & Whitney, and Saco Defense traveling throughout the Northeast and Midwest.

During the 1970’s, Lyman began purchasing and developing manufactured home communities in NH and later in ME. He also sold affordable manufactured homes and was a dealer for Burlington, Oxford, and Skyline homes. 

A lifelong animal lover, during his travels he visited many animal shelters. He was saddened to learn that animal shelters typically had a need for more resources and greater capacity to care for the homeless animals in their communities. As he was able, he began to donate to animal shelters in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, helping approximately 38 shelters in all. The Pope Memorial shelters named in his honor are in Orleans, VT, Thomaston, ME, Cherryfield, ME, Concord, NH, and Dover, NH. He will also be remembered for his contribution to the newly renamed Pope Memorial Library, North Conway, NH. During his lifetime, he also helped numerous individuals who touched his life.

Lyman’s connection to the Mount Washington Valley began while visiting for winter sports with his parents throughout his childhood. They would come by snow train from Haverhill. He remembered the arrival of Hannes Schneider and his family. He skied well into his 70’s and knew and skied with many of the early ski pioneers in the Valley! Over the years, he helped many family members with their ski technique. In 1968 he and Pat purchased a home in North Conway, and they became residents of Bartlett in 1993. He and Pat enjoyed exploring the coast of Maine and spent summers in Ogunquit. In 2018, he was predeceased by his beloved wife of 59 years. 

Lyman is survived by his son, Peter L. Pope and his wife, Rhonda Hallett Pope, of Dover, NH and children Amanda, Sheldon, & Caroline, their spouses, and 8 grandchildren. And by his son, Christopher J. Pope and his wife, Pamela L. Pope, of Freeport, ME and children Henry and Helen. He is also survived by his brother David A. Pope of Hampton, NH. Lyman will be missed by his family and remembered by many for all that he has done to touch the lives of so many human and furry beings. 

At Lyman’s request, there will be a private memorial service at a later date. Lyman would encourage donations to an animal shelter or rescue of your choice.