Mary Catherine Cope, 82, of Alton, Illinois passed peacefully Thursday, March 9, 2017 at her residence surrounded by her family.

She was born September 11, 1934 in Parkersburg, Illinois the daughter of the late Carl E. and Zella M. (Carrico) Pampe. She was an active member of Godfrey First United Methodist Church where she was a choir member for many years. She was a volunteer at Alton Memorial Hospital for 20 years. In 1997 she retired from Evangelical School in Godfrey after a teaching career that spanned over 40 years.

On December 26, 1959 in Olney, Illinois she married James K. Cope and he survives. Also surviving are two daughters and one son; Jan A. Rogalski (Gil) of Godfrey, Elise M. Harmon (Jim) of Bethalto and Lieutenant Colonel David M. Cope (Rebecca) USAF retired of Spring Valley, Ohio, six grandchildren; Sarah Harmon, Natalie Harmon, Jake Rogalski, Rachel Rogalski, Adam Harmon and Caroline Cope, and one brother; William R. Pampe of Austin, Texas.

She was preceded in death by one brother; Fred Pampe.

Celebration of Life service at Godfrey First United Methodist Church with Reverend Steven Friese Officiating. Burial will be private.

Telegraph, The (Alton, IL) - Friday, March 10, 2017