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He never hesitated to testify about the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord.

Jerry Mitchell Copeland, affectionately known as “Cool Breeze,” was born December 4, 1949, in Baldwyn, Mississippi, to the late Clarence and Irene Copeland.

 He graduated from Lee Prentiss High School with the Class of 1968 and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. 

Throughout his life, Jerry worked for several organizations, including Motor Wheels in Lansing, Michigan, and Malone & Hyde in Tupelo, Mississippi. 

Jerry’s foundation of faith began at an early age when he joined Mt. Nebo CME Church, faithfully attended Sunday school, and participated in Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF). That foundation remained with him throughout his life. He often shared how God had carried him through difficult seasons, and he never hesitated to testify about the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord.

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His ministry extended beyond the church walls.

 As a devoted member of Springhill Missionary Baptist Church, Jerry served as Assistant Superintendent of Sunday School, sang in the choir, and faithfully participated in the church prayer line. He loved God’s Word and especially enjoyed a spirited Sunday school discussion! Jerry knew the Bible and possessed a special gift for making Scripture plain, practical, and meaningful to others. 

His ministry extended beyond the church walls. Jerry was known for unexpectedly calling family, friends, and church members to offer encouragement and prayer. He would simply say, “You were on my mind,” and ask to pray with them. So often, those calls came at just the right moment, when someone needed them most. And regardless of the conversation, Jerry made sure to end with three heartfelt words: “I love you.” Those simple gestures became a beautiful reflection of his faith and the love he carried for others. 

To know Jerry was to know a man with an unforgettable personality. He had a distinctive voice, a hearty laugh, a quick wit, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. He took pride in looking sharp, carried himself with confidence, and had a style all his own. And when it came to dancing, according to Jerry, he was among the best! Whether sharing stories, offering advice, or enjoying time with loved ones, “Cool Breeze” always left a lasting impression. 

Above all, Jerry treasured his family and the relationships he built throughout his life. He was a loving father, proud grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His journey was not without challenges, but his life remained a testimony that through it all, God had been good to him. 

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Those simple gestures became a beautiful reflection of his faith and the love he carried for others.

On Thursday, October 8, 2026, Jerry peacefully transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest at his home. 

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Irene Copeland; his sister, Mary Copeland Edwards; and his brother, Larry Copeland. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jovan Swain of Baldwyn, MS; two granddaughters, Jasmine Swain and Jalissa Swain of Gaston, AL; one brother, Bobby (Shirley) Copeland of Lansing, MI; two sisters, Elizabeth Barnes of Lansing, MI, and Shelia Copeland of Baldwyn, MS; special nephews, Jovi Barnes of Detroit, MI, Eamon Barnes of Lansing, MI, Anthony Edwards of Chicago, Illinois; special nieces, Alexis Edwards of Lansing, MI, Echo Trice of Birmingham, AL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, his beloved Springhill church family, and dear friends. 

Jerry’s laughter, wisdom, prayers, and unmistakable voice will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him. 

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever our “Cool Breeze.”