K K Sewell Funeral Home in Manchester GA, respectfully announces the passing of James Copeland on July 14th, 2017.

Funeral is Friday, July 21, 11:00 am at Bethel C.M.E. Church 3575 Johnson Mill Road Hamilton, Georgia 31811

INTERMENT: Bethel C.M.E. Church Cemetery

Visitation is Thursday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm at K K Sewell Funeral Home in Manchester GA.

On the morning of Friday, July 14, 2017, the angel of death came into the home of James E. L. Copeland (Sonny) and with chilly fingers sealed the lips of our faithful and devout Steward.

James E. L. Copeland born to Squaire Copeland and Vera Copeland Williams on February 3, 1945. He joined the Bethel CME Church at an early age where he worked faithly as a steward, Trustee, Ministry to Men Coordinator and the First Male Missionary on the North Columbus LaGrange District. Bro. Copeland's love for God and Bethel CME Church was unbound. He was known for always accepting whatever job was given to him whether large or small, when he considered it a task for the furtherance of God's Kingdom. His enthusiasm for his religion and his willingness to do his best for his Lord was his life purpose. It made him a radiant and happy Christian.

James worked at Ford Motor Company in Cleveland, Ohio from January 1968 to February 1998. He retired with 30 years of service. He returned back to Georgia to make Shiloh his home again.

He will always be remembered by his Mother, Vera Williams whom he truly loved, honored, protected and cherished. Also, survived by a daughter, Constance (Michael) Salett; one grandson, and three great, great grand children of Cleveland, Ohio.

Survived by three sibling: Louise Dobbins, Shirley Hillmon of Decatur, GA, Josephine (James) Hodge of Fayetteville, GA; Three siblings preceded him in death, Earline V. Hairston (Doll), Charlie F. Williams, Jr. and Alfred M. Pearson; A special niece, Tatiana Jackson and nephew, Tyri D. Pearson; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; a very special little brother, Harris Hall of Atlanta, GA; a very special friend, Theresa Bray of Manchester, GA; several good friends, Leloa Broughton, Geneva Copeland, Elizabeth Ellison, Betty Stanley and Brenda Wise.