Beatrice Copeland

COPELAND Our beloved mother, Beatrice Jane Copeland (Bea) of Independence, Missouri, 85 years old passed away Saturday February 16, 2008 in Independence, Missouri. We invite you to celebrate her life in a memorial service at 10:30 AM, Friday February 22, 2008 at First Presbyterian Church, 100 N Pleasant (corner of Lexington), Independence, Missouri 64050. Thomas and Alma Cassidy gave birth to their first child, Beatrice Jane on May 28, 1922 in Kansas City, Kansas. Bea’s high school sweetheart was Wesley Eugene Copeland. They both graduated from Argenntine High School. Bea later married Gene at her parent’s house in 1945 while Gene was on leave from the war. A devoted and nurturing mother, Bea and Gene had three children; Nancy, Kevin, and Shawn. Bea’s family was the center of her life. An extraordinary mother, she gave her love freely and taught her children by how she lived, inspiring them to follow their dreams. Bea’s faith and membership in First Presbyterian Church grounded her life. She served as an elder, a Stephen’s Minister, participated in Presbyterian Women, Sunday school and church caravans. Flowing from her faith, she was a devoted community servant volunteering for years for Meals on Wheels, the Independence Sanitarium (Independence Regional Hospital), Planned Parenthood and PEO. She will be greatly missed by her children Nancy Copeland-Payton (Gary), Kevin Copeland (Beth); three grandsons; Ian Payton (Charity), Adam Payton, and Graham Payton; step granddaughter Alixandra Lea, and brother Thomas Cassidy (Imogene). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 100 N Pleasant Independence, Missouri 64050.