Josephine Copeland

Josephine Copeland (affectionately called Phine and Josie) was born on June 21, 1979, (along with her twin sister, JoElla Copeland) in Columbus, Ohio, to the parents of Elouise and Joseph Copeland. She attended Walnut Ridge High School and furthered her education at both Wilberforce University where she earned a B.A. in business management and Franklin University where she earned a MBA in leadership development. She served as an adjunct professor at Franklin University. She along with her twin, JoElla, were founders of the Elouise Copeland Academic Scholarship to invest in the future of Franklin University students.

Josephine served as the Livington Avenue area commissioner for several years where she impacted her community and residents.

Josephine was an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and Order of the Eastern Star PHA- Esther Chapter No. 3. Within the Order of the Eastern Star she served as the Worthy Matron, Daughters of Isis, Heroines of Jericho and Order of the Golden Circle.

She loved serving her community by volunteering with organizations such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Lifecare Alliance (Meals on Wheels), and the YMCA.

Josephine was a faithful believer, servant, and fellowshipped at both New Birth Christian Ministries and Southfield Missionary Baptist Church. At Southfield Missionary Baptist Church she served as a missionary.

Josephine was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Elouise Copeland. She leaves to cherish her memories Willard F. Ellis (brother); Cynthia (David) Jones (sister); JoElla Copeland (twin); Shawn Lucas (fiancé); Andrea (Earl) Hill and Jamia Smith (nieces); James Smith (nephew), great-nieces and nephews, family and friends. 

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