Born in Bessemer, Al. February 24, 1923 he was the son of the late Fred A. Copeland, Sr. and Ethel Rebecca Grimes Copeland. He was the husband of Betty Sue Duren Copeland who was originally from Tuscaloosa, Al.
He and Betty were married in 1947 and lived, loved, played, laughed, shared, relished and enjoyed 72 years of happiness together. He often told her if he could do it all over again he’d do it with her. They were avid travelers and visited all fifty states, North America, the Caribbean, Great Britain and Europe, always curious and always interested.
Bill was a graduate of Tuscaloosa High School’s class of 1940. He received a BS degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Alabama in 1949. He was also awarded a MS degree in education by the University of Alabama Birmingham. In addition he was a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
Bill retired from U.S. Steel after 35 years of service. He was an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, serving for three years, two of which were in the South West Pacific from 1944 through 1945. He retired from the U.S. Army with the rank of Colonel following 38 years of combined active and reserve duty service. He was “A Soldier for Life”.
He was a long time member of the United Methodist Church in the Birmingham area. Most recently he was a member of Avondale United Methodist Church where he served on the Administrative Board, sang in the choir and served on various committees. He was active in community volunteer efforts with Meals on Wheels, Birmingham Museum of Art, Woodlawn Shepherds Computer Learning Center, Woodlawn Christian Mission and Avondale Community School’s after school tutoring program.
He is survived by his son Billy B. Copeland, Jr. (Rusty) and wife Janne Quinn Copeland and their two children Rebecca Quinn Copeland Fordham and husband Marc Fordham; Bradley Copeland and wife Sarah Bigood, his daughter Patti Copeland and grandson Thomas Rabne; Grandson Matthew Copeland; Great Grand Children Mac, Copeland, and Edy Anne Fordham; sister Frances Copeland Thomas and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Betty Duren Copeland, his parents, Brother Fred Copeland, Jr. and his son Timothy Copeland.
Bill was a lover of Music and collected a large library of recorded music of all genres. An avid photographer, he documented his and his families earliest years up to today with photographs. He was also a strong supporter of UofA’s and UAB’s athletics and a lover of their basketball and football programs.
Although other things were important to him, these were the most compelling: he adored his family and cared deeply for his friends; he was committed to and worshipped his church; loyalty, allegiance and love of country were innate characteristics. Service, helping and compassion were his guide posts.
Due to Covid restrictions and concern for all, a private graveside service of burial will be held at Highland Memorial Gardens. The family request anyone wishing to honor Bill do so by displaying the American flag on Sunday.
In lieu of flowers it is suggested that consideration be given for memorial gifts to Avondale United Methodist Church Capital Fund or Greater Birmingham Ministries, all in care of AUMC, 500 40th Street S, Birmingham, Al. 35222
Reverend Malinda Jowers Weaver
Pastor Avondale United Methodist Church
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