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BORN
1940
DIED
2020
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Gary Copeland Obituary
Wilmington, DE - On Friday, Oct 23rd, 2020, Gary Earl Copeland passed away. He was a scholar, inspiration, pillar of the community, a caring man, and a loving husband.
He was born in Aug of 1940 in Maud, Oklahoma to Finis and Alpha Lee Copeland. He spent his afternoons working in his father's grocery store and his mornings excelling at school. With a gifted mind, he graduated a year early as valedictorian. He'd want you to know his only "B" was in drivers ed.
He took his Oklahoma University PhD in Physics to his new home in Norfolk, VA. Where he taught Physics for many years as a professor at Old Dominion University. During his tenure there, he helped found their physics PhD program.
Gary became president of the Unitarian Church of Norfolk and served in many leadership roles there. Throughout his life, he was an active advocate for his community and fought for LGBTQ+ rights. He retired to Wilmington DE, where he relaxed in coffee shops, watched detective shows, and helped run a world wide organization for older gay men.
Most importantly, he inspired many of us with his beautiful vision of physics. He inspired us, by example, to work hard and be our best. And He inspired us to care for and love each other, as he did.
He is survived by his husband, John Meyer, and little brother, Roger.
Memorial services will be held at Coastal Virginia Unitarian-Universalists in Virginia Beach, when it is safe to gather.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Copeland
Sponsored by Mealey Funeral Home - Limestone Road.
Steven Little
March 24, 2024
I know it's a little belated but I had Dr Copeland for a few courses in physics I was electrical engineering major graduate ODU and 92.
That man was one of the most brilliant people an incredible teacher of physics that I've ever known in my life whether it be a professors from Virginia Tech and other places I've attended Dr Copeland was at the top.
I can't forget his Relentless energy in solving problems like no other Professor especially in analytical mechanics the guy had one of those few Brilliant Minds I'll never forget them God Rest his soul
Douglas Morgan Strong
December 7, 2020
I first met Gary at 6:00 a.m. on a June morning in 1987 at the Capitol Hotel coffee shop in Little Rock, AR. He was the president of the Unitarian Church of Norfolk and I was one of three candidates to be their interim minister. We were both attending the annual UU General Assembly and as chair of the GA Planning Committee it was the only time I had available. Neither of us, it turned out, were good morning people. It was, however, a memorable breakfast. We hit it off. I became his minister and close friends for the rest of his life. Gary officiated at my Holy Union service in 1990 and while I moved a dozen times over the years, we never lost touch. He visited us while we were in Boston, Santa Monica, Tucson and Dallas. Whenever we contacted one another - in person or phone - it was as if we had seen/spoken just the day before. Time never diminished our bond of friendship. His friendship was a rare gift that I know he shared with many people. I will carry fond memories of this kind, gentle and loving man for the remaining years of my life.
Kelly Haupt
November 4, 2020
I took an introductory physics course from Dr. Copeland as a freshman at ODU in 1973. I remember him as engaging, insightful, and genuinely interested in his students. After floundering for another four years studying engineering, I called Gary for some academic advice. After reviewing my transcripts he suggested I consider changing my major to physics, which would allow me to graduate in one academic year. That made all the difference in my life. His counseling was instrumental and helped me find my way in a difficult time. I had the privilege of attending his retirement celebration in 2008, where I met John. I’m sorry that we never got together after that. I will miss him. May his memory be eternal.
Bobby Oliver
November 2, 2020
We all love Gary very much! We mourn for John and Roger as well as for all of Gary's friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Gary, requiescas in pace inter stellis.
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Jimmy Luttrell
November 2, 2020
Gary was the first friend I made when I moved to Eastern Virginia. My heart goes out to John and his family. He was such an amazing man, and I am proud he was my friend.
Wanda and Ken Edney
November 1, 2020
My husband and I are graduates of Old Dominion University, where Dr. Copeland taught us in one of his Geophysical Science classes. We met in his class, married in ‘73, and 46 years later, are still very much in love. Had it not been for his class, we may have never met and had such a wonderful life together. We will always remember him and the influence he has had on us all these years!
Michael Goodwin
November 1, 2020
Missing a good friend and great teacher who could explain physics to artists and make it interesting.
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