Donna Marie Pope

Donna Pope, 91, died peacefully at her home in Colorado on June 23rd, 2023, with her daughter at her side.

Pope, originally from the Cleveland area, was the 33rd Director of the U.S. Mint, being appointed twice by Ronald Reagan, for whom she was an unwavering champion. Pope was instrumental in the renewal of the U.S. Commemorative Coins and the creation of the American Eagle Gold and Silver investment coins. Prior to moving to Washington D.C., Pope was a five-term member of the Ohio House of Representatives, rising to the position of Minority Whip, where she fought for law and order and criminal justice issues.

Besides being a diligent public servant, Pope was also a wife, mother, and grandmother, who had a fun loving and creative side. Disney World was one of her absolute favorite places! She loved to garden, ballroom dance, and elaborately decorate for most every holiday.

Donna Pope was the daughter of John and Marie Kolnik. She is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Pope, a police detective for the City of Cleveland; and her daughter, Candace Wooley. She is survived by her daughter, Cherie Pope-Eagen, and four grandchildren: Alex Wooley, and Ryker, Dillon, and Nathan Eagen.

Pope will be buried in a private memorial service in Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.