Columbus Lee Copeland

Columbus Lee Copeland, 61, of Charlotte, NC went to be with Lord on Friday, January 7, 2022 at Tucker Hospice House following a period of declining health.

Columbus was born January 2, 1961 in Laurens County, S.C. the son of the late Johnny Lee Copeland and Janie Mae Wesley Copeland.

He was educated in Clinton, SC where was a standout, award winning High School basketball player which enabled him to secure an athletic scholarship to Evangel Jr College in Springfield, Mo.  He continued his education at Emmanuel Christian Seminary-Milligan University. 

Columbus was raised in a loving, supportive home in a tight knit neighborhood that gave him the strength to overcome every obstacle!  From stuttering to being raised in rural South Carolina, he utilized each life lesson to encourage, motivate and inspire others.  He created the CC Sleeper’s Basketball Camp in Laurens County to help players believe in their skills and self - worth.  He also launched the Pursuing Passion Training for students at his alma mater; Clinton HS.

Columbus was a coach and mentor for countless numbers of people of all ages, and whether speaking to thousands or just one person, he always left you feeling enlightened, empowered and wanting to hear more!  He traveled worldwide as a motivational speaker sharing words of encouragement, spiritual reflection and practical wisdom and guidance to help people live their best lives.  His numerous books and motivational tapes/videos will continue to inspire the masses for years to come.

A very well-respected and admired man who was always well dressed and well spoken, Columbus was a dreamer who worked diligently to achieve his lofty goals and make his dreams a reality.  Recently, Clinton High School honored Columbus with a lifetime achievement award and established a scholarship in his name.  He was a dedicated father, grandfather, brother, uncle, family member and friend who loved good peaching and soul stirring gospel music; especially “quartets” and the classics!

Left to cherish his memory include his son, Matthias Copeland of Las Vegas, Nevada, grandson Julius Copeland of Columbia, S.C., a brother, Bobby Copeland and wife Shilder of Clinton, S.C. along with their children Bobby Jr, Quada and Zarius, and a sister Rosetta DeLoach of Chicago. Among the many friends, JD Fuller, who Columbus has known since childhood, has been a consistent and tremendous source of support throughout his life journey and caretaker for the last few years Veronica Dean and family including her sons Robbie and Malik.

Whitley’s Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. Copeland.

Online condolences may be sent to www.whitleysfuneralhome.com

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