Donald Maurice Copeland was born on June 28, 1955, in Virginia to the late George Augustus Copeland and Collie Mae Parham. He was raised with strength, resilience, and values that guided him throughout his life.

Donald proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era. He entered military service on July 11, 1972, and was honorably discharged on September 30, 1974. As a Private (PV2), he answered the call of duty during a significant chapter in American history. His honorable discharge stands as a lasting testament to his courage, discipline, and commitment.

Following his military service, Donald worked briefly at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, continuing his connection to service and supporting national defense in a civilian capacity. His work reflected the same steady dedication he carried throughout his life.

On November 17, 1988, he was united in marriage to Barbara Ann Lewis. Together they shared 45 years of marriage built on love, loyalty, and devotion.

Donald departed this life on January 31, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Copeland; brothers, Harold Copeland, Joseph Copeland, and Edward Copeland; his sister, Reba Edmonds; his nephew, Harold Copeland, Jr.; and his brother-in-love, Joseph Barnes and his wife, Midor Barnes, of Newport News, Virginia.

He leaves to cherish his memory three loving siblings, Shelia Houston of Portsmouth, Virginia, Delores Gatling (Abraham) of Suffolk, Virginia and George Copeland, Jr. (Joyce) of Portsmouth, Virginia. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-love, Irene Booker (James) of Centerville, Georgia, Alice Baskerville of Petersburg, Virginia and Minister Dianne Weeks (Ernesto) of Petersburg, Virginia; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

The family extends heartfelt and special thanks to his nieces, Melinda Baskerville and Tabatha Barnes Smith, who patiently and lovingly watched over "Uncle Cope" after the passing of his wife, Barbara. Their care and devotion meant more than words can express.

Additional sincere gratitude is extended to his dedicated friends, Tony Wood, Howard Walker, Patrick Goodeau, Theron Polk (Crawley), and his neighbor, Tanya Gray.

While we mourn his passing, we find peace in knowing he is reunited with his beloved Barbara and those family members who went before him.

Rest in honor, Private Copeland. Your watch is complete.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 16, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. The interment will be held 9:00 A.M., Friday, February 20, 2026, at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5725759?fl=so&fe=fs