Barbara Copeland

Barbara Copeland passed away July 16, 2026 at the age of 83. She was born June 16, 1943 to the late Nubern and Ouida Faye Chandler.

She is survived by her husband, Norman Copeland; son, Billy Copeland; daughter, Staci Copeland; grandsons, Taylor Copeland, Clay Copeland and McClain Copeland; brothers, Phillip Chandler and Lawrence Chandler; sister, Sara Roper; sister-in-law, Gaynell (Donovan) Cordell and numerous nieces and nephews.

Barbara dedicated nearly four decades to Bellsouth, where she worked as a drafting clerk in the engineering department. Her hands were rarely still. Barbara’s nimble fingers brought life to beautiful sewn pieces—smocking, drapery, and pillows that graced the homes of loved ones. Her creativity knew no bounds, and her gifts were always crafted with great care. Beyond her talent for sewing, Barbara was renowned for her incredible cooking. The scent of her peanut brittle and fudge at family gatherings remains unforgettable, a sweet testament to the love she poured into every dish she made.

A deep joy for thrift shopping enlivened Barbara’s days, a hobby that not only revealed her thrifty spirit but also her appreciation for beauty in the simple things. Yet, her truest delight was found in caring for her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she tended to with patience and unwavering affection for many years. In every gesture, meal, and conversation, Barbara’s devotion shone brightly, becoming the anchor upon which her family’s memories and traditions were built.

A godly woman, she held steadfast in her beliefs and shared them continually, not through words alone but by the dignified way she lived her life. Barbara and Norman were members of First Freewill Baptist Church from 1974 until it closed in 2000, where Barbara served with grace as secretary and treasurer for many years. Their faith journey continued at Northside Baptist Church, where they have been faithful members for 26 years, partaking in a nurturing community that cherished them both.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to her caregivers, Nese Burton and Jackie Neely and the staff of VitalCaring Group who cared for her - Lexis, Carla, Jonathan Shanks.

Funeral services will be Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Northside Baptist Church with Rev. Scott Wilkin officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma directing. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens in Valley Grande with Dr. Jerry Light officiating. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the church, prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be David Summerlin, Chris Jones, Ken Smith, Rick Parton, Benny Austin and Jerry Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons of Northside Baptist Church and Gerald Jordan.

The family will accept flowers or you may consider memorial donations to Benevolence Fund at Northside Baptist Church; 2950 Citizens Parkway, Selma, Alabama 36701.