William Elton Copeland

William Elton "Billy" Copeland, a beloved member of the Adamsville community, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, in Jackson, Tennessee, surrounded by family. He was born on June 19, 1933, in McNairy County, Tennessee, and dedicated 68 years of his life to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ for many churches across the state of Tennessee.

He was united in marriage to Betty Haynes on September 17, 1955. Together, they forged a lifetime of love and devotion to God, one another, their family, and friends.

Billy excelled academically as the valedictorian of Adamsville High School before pursuing higher education at Union University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1969. After graduation, Billy furthered his education through the seminary studies program offered by Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Throughout his life, Billy enjoyed a variety of interests that included listening to bluegrass music, painting, traveling with his family, and watching wrestling. His dedication to maintaining an immaculate yard was a testament to his penchant for detail and beauty. He was a faithful member of the Adamsville First Baptist Church, serving proudly as a Deacon, where he touched many lives with his unwavering faith and compassion.

Billy is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Betty Haynes Copeland of Adamsville, Tennessee; his daughter, Lisa Marley and husband Mickey of Jackson, Tennessee; and his granddaughter, Jordan Carol Marley of Memphis, Tennessee. Additionally, he is survived by his nephew, Eddie Copeland and wife Sherry of Adamsville, Tennessee; his niece, Carol Smith and husband Dwayne of Stantonville, Tennessee; along with many extended family members and friends who will all remember him fondly.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, William Alton and Elizabeth Octavie Meek Copeland, and his brother, Leonard Royal Copeland. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives he influenced throughout his ministry and the love he shared with those closest to him.

Fittingly, Billy's homegoing celebration will be held on what would have been his 92nd birthday.

To honor Billy and Betty’s former role as house parents, memorials may be made to Tennessee Baptist Children’s Homes at https://tennesseechildren.org/