Obituaries

Chesapeake-In the peacefulness of the early evening of Tuesday; July 11, 2023, Marvin E. Copeland of Chesapeake, VA peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones.

Marvin was born August 25, 1948 to the late Benjamin & Johnnie Mae Copeland in South Norfolk, VA. He was predeceased by a brother, Willie T Copeland. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, family member, and friend to all.

Marvin became an active member of New Mount Olive AME Church in Chesapeake, VA at an early age. He was a member of the New Mount Olive Male, Senior, and Gospel choirs and loved to sing during all church activities. Additionally, he was a member of the church Lay ministry, security team, the Son’s of Allen, Steward Board and class leader. He often visited various local churches in the area to include New Weeping Mary, First Baptist Crestwood, and St Stephens Holiness church.

He was educated in the Chesapeake School system. He graduated from Crestwood High School in 1967 where he ran track and sung in the chorus. Having an innate love for the Army he enlisted in United States Army and was honorably discharged after participating in one overseas military campaign in Vietnam. After 3 years of military service in Army, he enrolled at Norfolk State University for 2 years. Marvin was retired from Cargill/Perdue Grain agriculture and oilseeds division and was a member of union Local 147 after 40 years of employment. He later rejoined the Army National Guard and retired after 21 years of dedicated service.

Marvin loved sports, track and field, and high/college school marching band and was a dedicated NFL Washington football team fan. He often would take the time to encourage, motivate and help whom he could be the best in all endeavors.

Marvin leaves to cherish his memories, to his devoted and faithful loving wife of 50 years married on February 24, 1973 to Emily Copeland of Chesapeake, VA. They had 1 Son and 1 Daughter: Eugene Copeland and Angelette Copeland-Harrell (William); and four grandchildren: Da’Qoun Copeland, Kemoni Copeland, Jenae Copeland, and Katouri Copeland. He is also survived by his brothers: Benjamin Copeland, Lloyd Copeland (Sharon); sisters: Annie B. Spence (Dexter), Mary Alice Jackson and Monique Copeland; three Sister In Laws: Joanne Copeland, Linda Brown and Garlena Pierce; 3 Brother In Laws: Matthew Williams, Linwood Williams (Renee), Timothy Williams (Vernise); one uncle: Bernard Dodson; two aunts: Genevieve Williams and Delores Warren; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held 1pm Friday; July 21, 2023 at New Mount Olive AME Church; 1953 Campostella Road; Chesapeake, VA 23324. Burial will be in Roosevelt Memorial Park. Viewing will be 4-6pm Thursday; July 20, 2023 at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers Street; Chesapeake, VA 23324.