Susan Allen Copeland

Susan Allen Copeland

Susan Copeland, 65, devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend; and widow of former Virginia Director of Athletics, Jim Copeland, passed away on Tuesday May 15, 2012, after a sudden onset of acute illness.

She was born on July 21, 1946, to Irvin Hamlett Allen and Helen Fitzgerald Allen, both of whom preceded her in death.

A graduate of Lane High School, Susan continued her studies at Mary Washington College, before marrying her high school sweetheart and lifelong companion, and starting a family. In 44 years of marriage, she successfully landed her family in Cleveland, Ohio, Columbia, Missouri, Williamsburg, Virginia, Salt Lake City, Utah, Dallas, Texas, and Charlottesville, trailing behind her all the while a chain of lasting bonds and durable friendships that crisscross the continent still today. Known affectionately for her quick wit, fierce competitiveness and charming hospitality "Susie" as she was known to family and close friends is mourned in the myriad communities that she touched. A compassionate philanthropist, Susie was a stalwart supporter of conservation causes, wild and domestic animals, medical research and youth programs. She was also an active and engaging member of her congregation, Peace Lutheran Church, 1510 Broad Crossing Road, Charlottesville, Virginia. Sue is survived by her daughter, Jennie Copeland Carter and her husband, Rich, of Charlottesville; her son, Wyatte James "Trey" Copeland III and his wife, Brandy, of Crozet; and her son, Matthew Allen Copeland and his wife, Karly, of Lander, Wyoming.

Also surviving are her brother, Tom Allen; her sister, Kay Hockman; six grandchildren, Kelsey Carter, Garland Carter, Wyatte Copeland IV, Grant Copeland, Evan Copeland and Everett Copeland; and beloved nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2012, at Peace Lutheran Church. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2012, at Christ Episcopal Church, 120 West High Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, with Pastor John Herman officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Sue be made to Peace Lutheran Church-Youth Program, 1510 Broad Crossing Road, Charlottesville, VA 22911 or to National Wildlife Foundation, 111 Wildlife Center Drive, Reston, VA 20190. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hillandwood.com.



This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.