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George COPELAND Obituary
He was born Aug. 7, 1914, to the late Charlie and Eva Copeland in Gates County, N.C. George came to Newport News in 1927 and graduated from Huntington High School in 1935. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Hampton Institute in 1941. Though born in North Carolina and raised in Newport News, Va., he spent his entire adult life in New York City. While there, he was employed by the New York City Public Library System where he was the first African American male professional to be hired in the circulation department. In 1951, Uncle Buddy received a Master of Library Science degree from Pratt Institute making him the first person to receive that degree from the oldest continually operating library school in America. He retired from the public library system in 1976 which allowed him the opportunity to do what he enjoyed most traveling and spending time with his family in Virginia and North Carolina. He was also a member of St. James Presbyterian Church in New York City since 1957.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his only sister, Myrtle 'Cutie' Jackson; and nephew, Arthur 'Bubba' Toliver.
He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving and devoted niece, Brenda Toliver Gibson and her husband, Harold, of the home; three nephews, Winfred (Vonnie) Jackson of Minnesota, Walter (Margorie) Jackson of Tennessee, and Garry Jackson of Northern Virginia.
The viewing will be held from 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. A celebration of life will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at O.H. Smith & Son Funeral Home, 3009 Chestnut Avenue, Newport News, Va., with the Rev. Edwin E. Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens.
The family would like to sincerely thank the staff of Sentara Careplex Hospital for their support and genuine care of 'Uncle Buddy'.
Arrangements are entrusted to O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for George COPELAND
3 Entries
Trish Tolley
December 28, 2009
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your Uncle Buddy. I did not know him personally, but he sounded like a remarkable man. I know he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Edward Miller
December 28, 2009
Sorry to hear of your loss' I did not know Uncle Buddy personally but have heard you speak of him many times. I feel like I knew him. Wishing you and yours my deepest condolences. I am sure you are proud of his acomplishments,may god bliss you.
O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home
December 28, 2009
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home3009 Chestnut Avenue, Newport News, VA 23607
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