SUFFOLK - Nelson Thomas Copeland, Sr., 89, of 1919 Nansemond Parkway, entered into eternal rest on March 16, 2008 at Sentara Obici Hospital. He was born in Carrsville and was son of the late Herley and Vertley Rawls Copeland.

He attended the Nansemond County Public Schools and retired in 1985 after 50 years as a self-employed carpenter. He was a member of Canaan Baptist Church.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his faithful wife of 57 years, Elsie B. Copeland; one daughter, Audrey C. Green of Suffolk; four sons, Raymond Copeland, Albert Copeland, Nelson Copeland, Jr. (Angelia), and Marvin Copeland (Ethel Jean), all of Suffolk; one sister, Ella Louise Holland of Suffolk; ten grandchildren, six great grandchildren, one aunt, Lucille Lawrence of Courtland; three brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 21, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Canaan Baptist Church, 2064 Nansemond Parkway, Suffolk, officiated by Dr. Robert L. Barnes, Pastor. Interment will be in the church cemetery. The family will be at the residence. Crocker Funeral Home is handling arrangements.