Gary Earl Copeland

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...

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...

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...

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.

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.

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!

Missing a good friend and great teacher who could explain physics to artists and make it interesting.