James Copeland

The Rev. James Copeland was born April 3, 1933, in Shiloh, GA to the late Earline Copeland (Howell) and John Mahone. He grew up in Shiloh GA but later moved to Cleveland Ohio. James worked for Ford Motor Company for 38 years and retired in 1992. During his years at the Ford Motor Company, he was recognized for never missing a day of work.

James Copeland welcomed Christ at an early age which led him m becoming a minister in 1985. He served as a pastor in the Second Episcopal District and later transferred to the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. He was given the wonderful opportunity to pastor at Cleaves Temple of Pittsburgh PA, Christian Temple of Akron OH, Norwalk Community of Norwalk OH, Phillips Temple of Steubenville OH, Mt. Sinai of Manchester GA and Brinson Chapel of Greenville GA.

James and the late Shirley Copeland (Barrett) were married in June of 1966. Of that union they were blessed with three children,James, Vera and Anthony. Along with Debbie, Claudia, Cynthia and Kimberly.

Throughout his time in Cleveland, he enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing on his boat the "Big Red". He also loved singing with the Imperial Jubilees and later with The Shield Brothers. He loved spending time with his family and had a special bond with each of his grandchildren and his great¬grandchildren.

On July 5th, 2021, Reverend James Copeland was united with his loved ones that preceded him in death, his beloved wife, Shirley Copeland, parents Earline Copeland (Howell) and John Mahone and his sister Vera Williams.

Reverend James Copeland leaves to cherish his memory, brother Clarence, children Debbie Copeland, Claudia Ford (Jerry), Cynthia Beatty (Robert), James Copeland, Vera Copeland, Kim Mathis, and Anthony Copeland (Tonya), 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.