Joseph L. "Joe" Copeland

Joseph Lester Copeland, Jr., 79, passed peacefully from this life into the arms of his Heavenly Father on May 7, 2025, following a prolonged illness. He was born on October 16, 1945, in Kilgore, Texas, to Joseph Lester Copeland and Evelyn Louise Forman (McGill).
Joe grew up in a close-knit family with four siblings: his older brother Calvin, and younger siblings Robert, Mary, and James. He graduated from Kilgore High School in 1963, one of just 20 graduates in his class. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1968.
On April 11, 1969, Joe married the love of his life, Janna Elaine McMillan in Dickinson, Texas. He began his career at Houston Lighting & Power and later co-founded Contech Control Services in the early 1980s with a close friend, Charlie Gibson. The company still flourishes today-a testament to his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.
A man of many talents, Joe was an avid woodworker who lovingly crafted everything from toys to furniture for his children and grandchildren. He and Janna were faithful members of the Twin City Church of Christ, where Joe served for many years as a deacon.
Together, Joe and Janna raised three sons: Kyle Joseph (b. 1970), Kevin Duane (b. 1972), and Roger Kent (b. 1974). Joe cherished his role as a father, but it was in becoming a grandfather that he found one of his greatest joys.
Joe became a grandfather on August 16, 2001, with the birth of Lauren Elaine Copeland to Kevin and Jennifer (Baker). William Joseph Copeland followed on March 31, 2006.
After much prayer and anticipation, Kyle and Shelby (Odom) were blessed with Alessandra (Ali) Kay Copeland, born March 27, 2015.
Joe's grandchildren lovingly know him as their "Pa". He loved being a grandfather. He adored his grandchildren and always ensured they felt and knew his love and pride.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, craftsmanship, and family devotion. Joe's life was a beautiful example of humility, service, and unwavering love