Ellis (George) Barnett Copeland was born May 10, 1959. in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Evelyn “Wimp” Fuller and late Ellis Barnett. Prior to George answering the call home to be with the Lord, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.

George was one of seven children born to his mother. He was a graduate of William M. Raines High School Class of 1978, where he participated on the Varsity Wrestling team. He was employed by Gate Concrete in Jacksonville, FL, for over 15 years. He served in the U.S. Army for 4 years. George enjoyed fishing, hunting, football (Jags) and found an interest in automobile maintenance and repair.

George was preceded in death by siblings: Elvis “Gator” Copeland, Alvin Thomas Copeland, Allene Copeland Bradford, Alfred Copeland, Ronald Stafford; grandparents: Albert & Crosena “Monday” Thomas; longtime companion: Shrlyndell “Sherry” Yvette Black.

He leaves to cherish his memories, siblings: Frankie Stafford, Cheryl Foreman, Josephine Watson, Debra Hickson (James), Narvell Copeland Jr, Dexter Copeland (Carol); aunts: Betty Thomas, Willa Faye Cohen, Roslyn Thomas; best friends: David “Buck” Bell and Maderia “Deri” Harris; bonus granddaughter: Dajah Dorn and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.