Mary Ruth Copeland

With profound sadness, the family of Mrs. Mary Ruth Copeland announces her peaceful passing on November 15, 2025, at age 86. A woman of resilience, sharp wit, firm values, and unmistakable personality, she leaves behind a legacy as unique as the life she lived.

Born on September 8, 1939, in Jenkinsville, South Carolina, Mary entered the world as Mary Ruth Martin, the beloved only child of Candace and Daniel Burrell. Raised primarily by her grandparents, Robert “Buddy” and Plumie Martin amidst her close-in-age aunts and uncles, her early years in the South shaped her strong work ethic and her lifelong belief in financial wisdom—lessons she would later distill into her famous advice: “You have to learn to save a nickel.”

At just 18 years old, Mary married the love of her life, Moses Copeland, in her hometown of Jenkinsville. A year later, at the age of 19, she moved with Moses to Hartford, Connecticut, where they built the foundation of a new life together. When Mary turned 20, the couple welcomed their first child—an event that marked the beginning of a growing family to which she would dedicate her life.

Mrs. Copeland began her working life as a seamstress at Rose Salustro Draperies, where she demonstrated meticulous craftsmanship and determination. Being sure to habitually set her alarm to the precise time of 4:42am, she later went on to work at Colt Firearms in West Hartford, CT, a role she held with pride and dedication.

A woman grounded in her Methodist faith, she was a devoted member of AME Zion Church in Hartford, CT, faithfully serving on the Usher Board for many years. Under the leadership of the late Reverend Alfred E. White, all her children were baptized, and she found both solace and community within the church walls.

Her life was filled with passions big and small. She loved dancing, traveling, watching the UConn Women’s Basketball games, and listening to her “spirituals.” She also had a deep appreciation for receiving thoughtful gifts. Yet one of her greatest joys was gathering around a table for spirited games of spades. These games were rarely quiet; filled with laughter, playful taunts, heated debates, and unfiltered fun. She had many “tells,” small gestures or expressions that gave away her next move, much to the delight—and occasional frustration—of her fellow players.

Her presence was constant, her expectations clear, and her influence undeniable. She believed in preparing her family for the realities of life, and the lessons she taught—sometimes firm, sometimes humorous, always memorable—will be carried forward for generations.

Mrs. Copeland is predeceased by her husband Moses Copeland, her mother and father Candace and Daniel Burrell, her daughter Rodella Copeland, son-in-law and spades partner Kevin Johnson,Marshal Hamilton and beloved cousin Gregory Martin. She is survived by her children (Candace Harris (Thomas Harris), Jacqueline Johnson (Kevin Johnson), Marqquita Ligon (Darrell Ligon), Keri Copeland and Alnisa Tindle (David Tindle)), grandchildren (Amelia Phillips (Jerome Phillips), Deneeka Reid (Courtney Reid), Moses Copeland (Nekia Cauley), Ashley Copeland, Keyoina Hill, Jasper Hill, Breah Clay-Bey, Najah Clark, Daijah, Nataya, Daneajah and Nyasia Tindle and Justice Gunter), and great grandchildren (Jahron Phillips, Justin Phillips, Jakobe Hill, Jeremiah Peddie, Karter Parrish, Jah’ni Chesson, Jenesis Reid, Kaiori and Nyheim Walters-Clark). Each of them carries a piece of her spirit, strength, and unmistakable spark.

Though she will be deeply missed, her vibrant stories, unapologetic honesty, cherished sayings, and unforgettable presence will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

        **The family will have a private repast**

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