Martha Copeland

Martha Copeland, age 84, of Branson, Missouri

Martha Copeland, age 84, of Branson, Missouri, went to be with her heavenly father on August 15, 2023. She entered this world on June 22, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Ralph and Martha (Meyer) Trumble. Martha was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Richard (Dick) Copeland.

Growing up in Webster Groves, Martha attended high school at Webster Groves and graduated in June of 1957. She attended Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri, where she received her Bachelor of Music Education degree in May of 1961. While she was in college, Martha was part of the marching band, Phi Beta national music organization, campus newspaper, and chapel choir. She also attended the St. Louis Institute of Music where she majored in piano teaching and earned a graduate degree.

Through the years, Martha enjoyed her role serving as a private teacher, church organist or pianist, church choir director, church secretary, English and music teacher in schools in Missouri and Mississippi, and paralegal.

Martha married the love of her life, Richard Copeland, on March 27, 1965, and they were married almost 45 years before he passed away. She wrote a few pieces of piano music on her own as well as wrote with her husband a program for the organ club and Christmas religious program. Martha and Dick adopted their son Chuck when he was only 27 days old. They moved to several states including Mississippi and Florida before she retired to Branson, Missouri.

Martha’s hobbies included music, needlepoint, pattern design, embroidery, and reading. She was a dedicated fan of Andy Williams, and for ten years would set their vacations according to his show schedule in Branson, Missouri. Martha will be greatly missed, and the sound of her music will carry on for all time.

She is survived by her son, Chuck Copeland of Lakeland, Florida and her two grandchildren: Tori and Tyler.

A celebration of life will be held 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at the Branson United Methodist Church in the Holt Chapel, with Pastor Lynn Dyke officiating. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence or memory, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.