On Sunday, October 29, 2023 James A. (Dink) Copeland, Sr., 82, passed peacefully away at his home. It was his time to re-unite with the love of his life and wife of nearly 50 years, Patricia.
James was born on April 21, 1941 in Benton, Kentucky to Joe Hollie and Evalena Copeland from the Oak Level Community. James attended school in the Oak Level and Brewers area.
James was a professional Truck Driver for over 50 years. Starting out driving trucks for a carnival while learning the rides and the business of carnival entertainment. During his 50 year career, he was employed as a diesel mechanic for a short time, but loved the driving. In his lifetime, he drove many heavy long-haul vehicles pulling many trailer platforms to include dump trucks and buses for Brooks Bus Lines. James preferred to pull Van type trailers. Many may have talked to him during his driving years. He was always on the CB with the Handle of Toe Jam while cruising down the highway in his rocking chair. James enjoyed and spent many years as a member of the Lakeland CB Radio club and later as a founding member of the Go As You Are Gang CB Club out of Benton, KY in the mid to late 70’s.
James (and Patricia) served over two decades as Foster Parents providing a loving home, care and support to many children of the McCracken and Graves County.
He is survived by his children, James Copeland, Jr. (Tresea), Roger Copeland, Hollie Copeland (Patty), Thad Copeland (Merry), Nikki Litchenberg, Raven Copeland and Justin Copeland. Along with 14 grandkids, 7 great-grandkids and 1 great, great-grandkid.
He was preceded in death by his wife of almost 50 years, Patricia Joyce (Pat) Copeland; son, Shane M. Copeland and his parents, Joe Hollie and Evalena Copeland, along with his 14 brothers and sisters, a legacy within itself.
A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at Collier Funeral Home with Danny Pruitt officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Level Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, November 3, 2023 at Collier Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.