David Copeland

David Copeland, 70, of Wharton, TX passed away Friday, January 4, 2019 at an El Campo nursing center. He was born on January 30, 1948 in Wharton a son of the late James Olin and Emily Francis Luchak Copeland.

David was active in the Boy Scouts growing up, earning the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Wharton High School with the class of 1963. He later attended WCJC here in Wharton and graduated from Texas A&M University in 1967. On December 29, 1979, he married Toni Kay “T.K.”  in Wharton. She preceded him in death on February1, 2018. David worked in sales most of his life, owning a filling station early and later venturing into agriculture products. He was a longtime member of the Wharton Volunteer Fire Department for over 33 years and served as Chief for 10 years. David also served his church by being a Deacon at First Baptist Church in Wharton for many years. He enjoyed serving his community and town by being on the Wharton City Council, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, founding member of the Wharton Freedom Fest, and serving on numerous advisory boards over the years. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Copeland.

He is survived by daughters, Melissa K. Hand and husband, Shelton of Nashville, TN, and Kim Wake and partner, Pat DeLucia of Lubbock, TX, sister, Susie Raines of Rowlett, brothers, Steve Copeland and wife, Debbie of Willis and Bill Copeland and wife, Diane of Iago, grandchildren, Amanda Kay James, Ryan James, Chatam Hand, Noah Hand, Jackie DeLucia, Jaime DeLucia, and Evan DeLucia,  along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

            Visitation will be held on Friday, January 11, 2019 from 6 till 8 pm at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2019 at 11 am at the First Baptist Church in Wharton with Bro. Tony Wishert officiating.

            In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to  CDC First Baptist Church or Wharton Fire Department.

Funeral services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.  Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.