Laurence (Larry) Dale Copeland

Laurence Dale Copeland, a beloved husband, father, and respected electrical engineer, was born on January 14, 1939, in Morristown, New Jersey. He passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, in Abilene, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family.

Laurence was raised in Nashville, Tennessee, where his passion for engineering blossomed. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Vanderbilt University in 1961, laying the foundation for a distinguished career. Larry dedicated over a decade of his professional life to Vitro, where he was proud to contribute to submarine testing from 1961 to 1974. In 1974, he felt a calling from the Lord to preach so he moved his family from Maryland to Lubbock, TX to attend Sunset School of Preaching. Following graduation, he preached for congregations in Helena, Montana and Cottonwood, Texas. He returned to electrical engineering to help support his family in 1981. His expertise and ingenuity led him to (AEP) American Electric Power (formerly WTU) where he made significant contributions to the electricity supply industry.

On June 10, 1961, Larry married the love of his life, Betty Jean Murray. In the 53 years they had together, they built a wonderful life filled with adventure, love, and cherished memories. Their partnership was an inspiring example of commitment and devotion, and Larry held his wife and family in the highest regard until the end.

Larry had a thirst for knowledge, which he satisfied by earning a Master's degree in Business Administration from Abilene Christian University in 1998. His intellectual curiosity and strong work ethic were traits that many admired.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through his daughters, Tracy Copeland and Karen (Michael) Gililland, as well as son, Kevin (Kim) Copeland. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren, Lindsey (Steven) Carroll, Corban Gililland (Mackenzie), and Jayson Copeland. His family and friends will remember him for his kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering faith.

Larry was preceded in death by his wife Betty Copeland, father, Samuel Lynn Copeland, and mother Mary Copeland as well as a brother Wallace, and two sisters, Marilyn and Lorraine.

Memories, memes, jokes and pictures can be shared via e-mail: [email protected]

A visitation with his family will be held on Friday, February 28th, 2025 from 5-7pm at Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut St.  A private family graveside will be held on Saturday at Elliott Hamil Garden of Memories.  There will be a Celebration of Larry's Life held at Highland Church of Christ at a later date.

TO HONOR LARRY

PLEASE CONSIDER GIVING TO

HIS FAVORITE CHARITIES:

CHRISTIAN SERVICE CENTER or

FAITHWORKS OF ABILENE