Robert Perry Copeland

Robert Perry Copeland, 71 of Meridian, passed away early Monday morning at Rush Health Systems in Meridian. He was born August 30, 1948 in Lexington, TN, the oldest of four children to John P. & Robbie Mae (Stewart) Copeland. He grew up in the Memphis area, where he came to love basketball, jogging and playing the guitar. Robert was so enthused with the guitar that he taught himself to play. He was the type that could do most anything, from fixing the central air and heat unit to rebuilding engines for the car. There was nothing he couldn't fix, repair or build himself. He attended State Tech, but secured a position with the US Navy, working in the IT department where he remained for 36 years until his retirement. In 1974, Robert married Brenda Faye Smith and they spent their lives making many happy memories together, calling Memphis and Pensacola home before Meridian. In fact, he actually built their first home, of which he and Brenda were quite proud. He is remembered as a helpful. loving man who enjoyed playing music with his friends. Robert loved classic cars, especially Plymouths and T-Birds, but purchased his wife a 1970 Cadillac Eldorado, which she still has today. A wonderful husband and the best brother, Robert loved dogs and was a member of Providence ARP Church in Bartlett, TN. He will no doubt be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded by his parents, John Perrie & Robbie Mae Copeland. Left to cherish his memories are: his devoted wife of nearly 46 years, Brenda; his siblings, one sister, Brenda (Jeff) Strantz of Bartlett, TN and two brothers, John (Trudy) Copeland of Tupelo, MS and Jimmy (Gwendy) Copeland of Humboldt, TN. Though he had no children of his own, he regarded his nieces and nephews as his children: Samuel Strantz, Chris (Megan) Copeland, Rachel (Kevin) Colbert, Amy (Cham) Crabtree, and Rebecca (Michael) Meredith. He also leaves his four-pawed daughter, "Fritter", along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors through the years. Robert's final wishes were to be cremated, which his family is honoring. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Copeland family and asks everyone to keep them in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days.