Mary Jo Copeland

Mary Jo Copeland, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully passed away on Thursday afternoon (April 17, 2025), just after 2:00 p.m., surrounded by love. She was 88 years old.
Mary Jo was born on December 16, 1936, in Cropwell, Alabama, the second eldest of seven children born to Earlie and Annie O'Neal. In 1956, she moved to Decatur, Illinois, where she married the love of her life, Edward "Eddie" Copeland. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their son, Mylas Copeland, who now resides in Springfield, Illinois, with his wife, Casey, and their two children, Aesen and Darby-Mary Jo's pride and joy.
Mary Jo spent many dedicated years working at GE Manufacturing before beginning a second career at Decatur Township. No matter where she worked, she carried herself with dignity, integrity, and a deep sense of commitment.
A devout Christian, Mary Jo was a lifelong and faithful member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as a dedicated usher and choir member until her health no longer allowed. Her faith was a steady light in her life and in the lives of everyone she touched.
Mary Jo was also an esteemed member of the St. Mary's Chapter #65 Order of the Eastern Star, Decatur, IL. She loved her community deeply and contributed to it with grace and kindness.
An avid sports fan, Mary Jo could often be found spending weekends watching multiple college basketball, college football, and professional football games-especially once YouTube TV made it possible to watch several games at once. Sports brought her immense joy, and her enthusiastic commentary could turn any living room into a lively arena.
She was a legendary cook, known far and wide for her homemade dressing, creamy macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato pies that brought family and friends together around the table. Her cooking was an extension of her love-nourishing and unforgettable.
Mary Jo had a unique gift for making people feel special. Her honest words and heartfelt presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was not one to mince words-her candid spirit was one of her many endearing qualities. Her favorite saying, "I ride long and I ride late," summed up her adventurous, spirited nature-you never quite knew when she might show up, but her presence always made things better.
Above all, Mary Jo's life revolved around her family. She was immeasurably proud of her son, Mylas, whom she lovingly called her greatest accomplishment. She shared a special bond with her daughter-in-law, Casey, and adored her grandchildren, Aesen and Darby, celebrating every achievement and milestone with pride. She also treasured her close relationship with her niece, Rolanda, sister, Marcelene, and cousins Modestine, Tiny and "Little" Tiny whose care and devotion brought great comfort in her later years.
Mary Jo is survived by her son Mylas (Casey) Copeland of Springfield, Illinois; grandchildren Aesen and Darby Copeland; siblings Thelma Jones, James (Mollie) O'Neal, and Earnestine O'Neal of Pell City, Alabama; and sister Marcelene Ragland of Decatur, Illinois. She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives were made richer by knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Earlie and Annie O'Neal; her beloved husband, Edward "Eddie" Copeland; her brother Lenford O'Neal; and her sister Irene Butler.
Mary Jo's life was a testament to faith, family, and fortitude. Her strength, her love, and her vibrant spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Smith Alzheimer's Center in memory of Eddie Copeland. Please make checks payable to the SIU Foundation and mail to 409 W. Calhoun Ave, Springfield, IL 62702 or donate online to https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/41938/donations/new