Steven S. Pope

Steven S. Pope, 71, of Douglas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. He was the devoted husband of June (Taft) Pope, with whom he shared many wonderful years.

Born in Worcester, MA, Steven was the son of the late Theron T. Pope Jr. and Mary K. (Spencer) Pope. Raised and educated in Upton, he was a proud graduate of Blackstone Valley Technical High School, where he first began honing the mechanical skills that would define his professional life.

Steven’s career was marked by a tireless work ethic and a mastery of his craft. He began as a Millwright for Snyder’s Brothers in Millbury, later earning his CDL to drive gas tankers for AIM Tek in Auburn. During his time there, he became an expert in the installation and repair of industrial tanks before transitioning to Linde in Auburn as a service technician. Even in retirement, Steven’s restless spirit and desire to stay active led him to a part-time role driving for Table Talk Pies in Worcester.

Beyond his professional life, Steven was a true enthusiast of anything with an engine. He possessed a lifelong passion for classic cars and motorcycles, finding a unique sense of freedom on the open road. Whether he was admiring the chrome at a local car show or feeling the wind on a long motorcycle ride, he had a profound appreciation for the craftsmanship and power of a well-tuned machine.

His commitment to his community and family was equally strong. Steven served as an Assistant Boy Scout Leader and later as Troop Leader for Douglas Troop 134, passing down the outdoor skills he had mastered as a youth in his own Upton Troop. He took great joy in finding creative ways to keep his children and grandchildren active, from racing in the annual Blackstone River Race to volunteering his time for the Greenway Challenge.

Steve was a man of boundless kindness and ingenuity. Known for his quick wit and ready jokes, he had a natural ability to brighten any room. His resourcefulness was legendary; whether at work or home, he viewed every challenge as a puzzle to be solved and took great pride in every repair and improvement he made with his own two hands.

In addition to his beloved wife, June, he is survived by his children, Mark R. Pope of Worcester, and Melissa E. Slater and her husband Christopher of Douglas; his stepchildren, Robert M. Doud, Jr. and his wife Heather of Dudley, and Jennifer M. Ceredona and her husband John of Mendon. He was the dear brother of David M. Pope of Douglas, Terry L. White and her husband Richard of Bellingham, Patty Maher and her husband Lester of Bellingham, and Tina Pope of Inverness, FL. He also leaves behind six grandchildren who were the light of his life.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 P.M. on Thursday, February 19, at the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home, 45 Main Street, Upton.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 A.M. on Friday, February 20, at St. Denis Church, 23 Manchaug Street, Douglas. Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Upton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to St. Denis Church, 23 Manchaug Street, Douglas, MA 01516.