Mary M. Copeland

Mary Magalene Copeland “Cookie”, 89, was peacefully called to be with the Lord on August 30, 2021.  She was born on August 5, 1931 in Norfolk County (Portsmouth, Virginia).  She was born to Mary Wright and Elijah Jordan in the Twin Pines Community. She attended the old Norfolk County School in Churchland. Mary “Cookie” worked at numerous places in the area.  She joined Grove Baptist Church under Rev. Douglas era when she was very young.  She was an active member of the Gospel Choir and a member of the Nurse’s Aide Committee.  She loved to hear and sing gospel music.

Mary “Cookie” had a strong work ethic!  She worked at numerous places in the area.  She worked at Churchland Elementary for a number of years as a custodian.  Mary later realized that becoming a chef was what she really loved doing.  She was the manager at Churchland Pharmacy lunch counter, kitchen manager at the old Shoney’s in Churchland, and finally became a kitchen manager for an Italian Restaurant.   After decades of working “Cookie” finally decided to retire and enjoy her life with family and friends.

Mary loved visiting different friends in the Twin Pines and Churchland Community.  She especially love going to the Grove Baptist Women Softball games.  She never missed her daughter’s, granddaughter’s, and grandson’s games. She was a cheerleader who wore every jersey the team wore.  Mary “Cookie” cheered if the team did well and scorn them if they made an error.  She was an entertainer that most players remembered!  Mary “Cookie”, loved to travel!  When her health permitted, she was ready to go any and everywhere. She met many friends who would cherish and respect her outspoken personality. Her personality definitely left an impression on every person she encountered.  Mary “Cookie” enjoyed life, loved her family, and everyone around her!

She was proceeded in death by her father Elijah Jordan, mother Mary Wright, husband John Henry Copeland, Jr., daughters, Izora Thomas and Evangelist Dianna Harris and a daughter-in-law Patricia Thomas.

Mary “Cookie” leaves a rich legacy and much love to be celebrated and cherished by her daughter, Connie Patillo, her sons: Alexander Thomas, Jr. (Carolyn), Lawrence Thomas (Beverly), Nathaniel Thomas (Kyoko), Vernon Thomas (late Patricia); her dedicated grandchildren, Angel Patillo (Amaria) and Angelo Patillo (Ashley); her brother, Russell Jordan; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 8 great, great grandchildren, her best friend and oldest relative, Marion Jones, special relatives and caregivers, Rosa Thomas-Boone, Leah Thomas, and Kelli Thomas (granddaughter).