Jane Copeland Williams

Jane Copeland Williams, devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother, Sister and Friend passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her home outside Charlotte on June 29, 2024.

Jane was born January 17, 1941 in Rockingham, NC, the second daughter of the late Nelle and John Copeland. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Johnelle Webster of North Myrtle Beach, SC.

Jane is survived by her husband of 62 years, Leaton M. "Ted" Williams III, two daughters, Mary Riffee (Jeffrey) and Tamara Brooks (Michael), and four grandchildren, Christian Riffee, Hope Riffee, Charles Michael "Trip" Brooks III, and Jackson Brooks.

Jane has two brothers, Bill Copeland (Ginny) and Bob Copeland (Taressa) , a sister-in-law, Clyde Williams and two brothers-in-law Henry Webster and Bob Williams.

Jane graduated from Rockingham High School where she was a majorette and flutist in the band. She began her college career in 1960 at Flora McDonald College at Red Springs, NC and finished her Cum Laude Bachelor's Degree at Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg, VA in 1985.

In these intervening college years Jane married, had two wonderful daughters, taught school, worked at the Marine Corps Quantico Museum in historic preservation, worked for the Weight Watcher's organization and was an active member of the Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg, VA. During this time Jane made a home and raised a family and was an anchor and encourager for her husband, children and friends.

Travel was one of Jane's many joys. With a young family she enjoyed many adventures traveling and camping across the U.S. with the kids, husband and two large dogs in their 1965 Dodge van.

As an empty nester Jane took the opportunity to travel overseas with her husband visiting much of Europe. After their retirement in 2000, the couple joined a club called "Highpointers". The goal of the club was to climb the highest point in all 50 states. In her 60's Jane hiked/climbed the highpoints of 40 of the 50 states including Mt. Elbert, the highest point in Colorado at 14,000 ft.

With her husband and in their 1990 Dodge truck with a slide-in camper, Jane traveled to all the lower 48 states. They developed long-term friendships with folks along the way. These friends would prepare "To Do" lists for the Williams when they visited. These travels became fantastic mission trips every fall.

After 44 years in Virginia the couple moved back to NC. They settled in the Charlotte area to be close to family. The family put down roots, became active in Christ Covenant Presbyterian Church and developed another set of wonderful neighbors and friends.

Jane will always be known for her unfailing faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

She was devoted to her husband and children and dearly loved her four grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held on July 13, 2024 officiated by dear friend and pastor Bruce Creswell. The service will begin at Christ Covenant Presbyterian Church located at 800 Fullwood Lane in Matthews, NC.

The visitation/viewing will be from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM followed by a Celebration Service from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. After which the service will travel to Richmond County Memorial Park in Rockingham, NC for a graveside service. The Memorial Park address is 1717 Highway 74 East, Rockingham, NC.

Funeral services are lovingly provided by Heritage Funeral Service in Matthews, NC.