Mary Thornton Vernon Copeland, age 96, peacefully passed away on February 20, 2016, at the Village Place Assisted Living Facility in Pt. Charlotte, Florida.

Mary was born in Tampa, Florida, on July 6, 1919, to the late Frank Willard and Lila Tanner Vernon. She and her husband, the late Allan Fleming Copeland, made their home in Arcadia,
Florida, where Mary raised five children and was a very active member of Trinity Methodist Church. Mary taught Sunday school, served on many committees, and was the originator of the church's popular jumble sale. Mary operated a children's day care out of her home and was beloved by the children and their parents. Mary also spent many years volunteering as a Pink Lady at Desoto Memorial Hospital. She had a strong spirit of volunteerism and was always happy to sew a quilt, bake a pie, or make some jam to help her community.

Mary had the gift of hospitality and shared it generously with all who knew her. Her home was a warm gathering place, and Mary made all feel welcome. She had a bright smile, and her good nature was contagious. She delighted in her large family, always finding time to visit them across the country and doting on her many grandchildren and the generations that followed.

Survivors include four children: Marianne (James) Crews of Osage, Oklahoma; Allan (Nancy) Copeland of Savannah, Georgia; Earl (Patty) Copeland of Charleston, South Carolina; and Cheryl (Brick) Rule of Pt. Charlotte, Florida; a brother, William (Betty Jo) Vernon of Plant City, Florida; a son-in-law, Terry Broughton of Fort Myers, Florida; many nieces, nephews, and extended family; and a beautiful legacy of 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Allan, and her daughter, Sandra.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at Charlotte Harbor Methodist Church 2304 Seneca Ave. Port Charlotte, Fl. July 23, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church of Arcadia (304 W Oak St, Arcadia, FL 34266) or Trinity United Methodist Church of Charlotte Harbor (23084 Seneca Ave, Port Charlotte, FL 33980).