Henry Alvin Copeland
Henry Copeland, loving father and caring husband to Theresa, passed away on Sunday, July 3, 2016 after 92 years. He was born in Chesterfield County, Virginia to Florence Copeland on August 25, 1923. He, his brother Vernon, mother Florence, and step-father James Rose, moved north to Newark, New Jersey when he was a teenager. He resided there with other family members, aunts, cousins, and many friends. He attended public school at Newark Tech, learning the masonry trade.
At 18 he was employed by Tompkins Tidewater Terminal in South Kearny, New Jersey. He was a maintenance man at this very large and busy property. They received freight from ships, trains, trucks and courier. He was responsible for maintaining basic electrical, masonry, carpentry, plumbing, asphalt, snow removal, and all work to maintain property. He continued to work until he was drafted into the United States Navy where he served his country during WWII. After a few years of service, he returned to Tompkins where he worked until he was in his seventies and finally retired.
He was married to Theresa Jordan, his wife until his death. He had four sons, Warren (deceased), Joseph (Mildred), Anthony (Cassandra Maxine), and Vernon. He has 9 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Henry was a very private man with very simple desires. He was always joking, but very interested in world affairs. He was so emotional when Barack Obama was elected. He was proud of this country he fought for.
A memorial service will be held at the Shrine of Remembrance at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2016.