Lena M. Michell

Lena Mae Michell, 98, formerly of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025, in Springfield, MO. She was born on February 8, 1927, in Vichy, MO, to Elmer and Gladys (Copeland) Baker.
Raised in the heart of Illinois, Lena's early years were spent absorbing the values of hard work and education. Her journey led her to graduate from John F. Hodge High School in St. James in 1944, a milestone that marked the beginning of a life filled with love, service, and dedication.
Lena's heart found its match when she married Kenneth Copeland, with whom she shared the joy of raising four wonderful children: Mike, Patti, Steve, and Jim. At the end of World War II, the family settled in Rolla, MO, where Lena's adeptness with numbers and her meticulous attention to detail shone through her work as a bookkeeper for various local businesses.
The couple later moved to Sullivan, where together they embarked on a new adventure, opening their store, Sullivan Auto Parts. Despite the store's closure in the early '80s due to Kenneth's health, Lena's resilience and spirit remained undiminished. After Kenneth's passing in 1989, Lena's life was graced with love once more through her marriages to Clarence "Woody" Woodruff and Gene Michell, each bond ending too soon with their passing.
Lena's faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a devoted member of the Sullivan Christian Church. Her commitment to community service was further exemplified in her role as a Worthy Matron with the Eastern Star Chapter 105 in Sullivan, where her leadership and compassion benefited many.
In 2016, Lena made the move to Springfield, making her final home at Cobblestone Apartments and later at the Maples. There, she cultivated numerous friendships, her presence a source of warmth and generosity. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of both the Maples and Seasons Hospice, who provided comfort and support in her final days.
Lena found solace in the tranquility of her plants and flowers. Her later years saw her embrace the thrill of travel, the challenge of card games like Hand and Foot, and the simple pleasure of listening to Elvis Presley's melodies. A late-blooming but enthusiastic Cardinals fan, she shared her passion for the game with friends and family alike.
Lena's legacy is one of selfless assistance and an open heart, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. She will be remembered as a kind and spirited soul, whose interesting life stories and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who were touched by her presence.
Lena is survived by her sons: Mike Copeland and wife, Dorothy of Nixa, MO, Steve Copeland and wife, Flo of St. Roberts, MO, and Jim Copeland and wife, Jane of Metairie, LA; four grandchildren: Gina Canaday, Dana Clark and husband, Terry, Brian Copeland and wife, Laurin and Christy Meredith and husband, Dustin; seven great grandchildren: Amy Pacheco and husband, Michael, Corey Canaday, Tenley Meredith, Hattie Meredith, Dawson Meredith Ethan Copeland, and Tavien Copeland; two great-great grandchildren, Hudson & Corie Myla Pacheco; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husbands: Kenneth Copeland, Clarence "Woody" Woodruff, and Gene Michell; a daughter, Patti Rolufs; a grandson, Jimmy Copeland; her parents, Elmer and Gladys Baker; and a sister, Wanda Lee Sorci.
Services will be 11:00 AM, Monday July 7, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan with Pastors John Blackmore and Ron Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Ozark Hills Memorial Gardens, Rolla, MO.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Monday, July 7, 2025 at the funeral home prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital and/or the Convoy of Hope.
Friends may send their online condolences to Lena's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.