Ora Lee Spears Pope

Ora Lee Spears Pope was a remarkable woman whose unwavering dedication and boundless love left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Throughout her life, she served as an educator and a nurturing figure deeply invested in the growth and educational development of the St. Helena Parish community. Affectionately known by various endearing names—such as Mother, Mother Dear, MaDear, Madea, Ma, Granny, Dear, Lee, and Ms. Pope—she was a beloved matriarch. Her classroom was a sanctuary of learning where she imparted timeless lessons, instilled values, and enforced discipline with a firm yet loving hand. On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 91, Ora Lee transitioned to her heavenly home, leaving behind a rich legacy of love, learning, and community service that will resonate for generations.

Ora Lee Spears Pope was born Feb 29, 1934, to the late Hosie and Sadie Wright Spears in Darlington, Louisiana. She was the oldest of six children and was reared in a Christian home. In 1953, she accepted Christ under the guidance of Rev. Henry Perkins at Matthews Chapel A.M.E. Church, where she has been a lifelong member. Within the church, she wore many hats: Sunday School Teacher, Church Secretary, Leader of Board #2, Director of YPD (Young People’s Division), Director of Vacation Bible School, Class Leader of Class #4, and Trustee. Ora was also an Eagle Chapter #113 Order of Eastern Star member in Greensburg, Louisiana. Ora always stepped in wherever she was needed. She held every job successfully in the church except preaching a sermon and singing in the choir.

Ora briefly attended O.W. Dillon in Kentwood, Louisiana, and later attended and graduated from St. Helena High School in 1951. After graduation, she attended Southern University, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree plus 30 hours in Elementary Education. She was also a faithful member of the Southern University Alumni Association.

On June 3, 1956, she married the love of her life, Robert P. Pope, and they had three children together.

For three decades, she served as a public school teacher. She taught at Pine Grove Elementary and St. Helena Middle School, imparting knowledge in English and Math. Her stern demeanor and exceptional class management skills left an unforgettable mark on her students. She also took on the role of a school principal within the St. Helena Parish School System, ensuring that young minds thrived under her guidance.

After retiring from the school system, she continued her service by becoming a Director with Regina Coeli Head Start in St. Helena Parish for 12 years. Here, her commitment to early childhood education positively impacted the community.

Sundays were very special for Mother. She delighted everyone with her famous fried chicken, fresh garden vegetables, buttermilk cornbread, and homemade biscuits. She expressed her love through good food. Beyond the kitchen, she found joy in traveling, gardening, farming, and tending to her livestock with the same dedication she showed to her loved ones.

Ora leaves to cherish her legacy and memories three children; Gayle L. Pope of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Robyn D. Pope (Gwendolyn) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Shannon Pope-Ricardo (Ralph) of Powder Springs, Georgia. Three sisters; Annie Lee Overton (James) of New Orleans, Louisiana, Lottie Jones of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Marclean Robertson of New Orleans, Louisiana. One brother-in-law, Ellis Pope of Shreveport, Louisiana. Three god-children; Jerry Jackson Jr. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dedrea Renea Robertson of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Tomekia Rankins-Goins of Gonzales, Louisiana. She also leaves 10 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert P. Pope, parents Hosie and Sadie Wright Spears, brothers Perry P. Spears and Roger Johnson, and great-grandson Zeremiah Carey.

Viewing will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, 87 Paddio Johnson Ln., Greensburg, La 70441 at 9 am until the religious service at 11 am. Rev. Stacey Richardson will be officiating the service. Interment will be in Day’s Chapel Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home