Michael Gerald Copeland, was born on November 8, 1967, to the late Ann Walker and Gerald Boone Copeland. Mike graduated from Southern High School and would go on to earn two Bachelor of Arts degrees from UNC Charlotte. After a short time with the Durham Police, he discovered his true passion in announcing and was having the time of his life doing so at UNC games. He was thrilled to have been selected to announce for Late Night with Roy Williams. He had his sights on becoming the “voice of choice” for UNC when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Even though he had to give up the job of his dreams, he remained positive and decided that his true calling was to motivate others. Mike was intentional with his friendships and frequently reached out to his friends to offer positivity and words of encouragement. He dedicated his time to being a champion for others. Never, not once, did he question why he was struck with this disease at such a young age. He was a devoted husband, son, father, uncle, and friend. It’s the only way he knew how to live. He leaves to mourn his wife, Jessica Harris, his dad, Gerald Copeland, and his son, Justin Harris. Four sisters-in-law: Paulette Wallace (Bubba), Deborah Harris (James), Lisa Walton (Corey), and Natasha Phillips (Kendall), one brother-in-law, Jesse Harris (Renae), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Funeral Arrangements:
Funeral Service: Wednesday November 12, 2025 | Visitation: 11:00 am | Funeral: 12:00 pm
Place of Service: Southside Church of Christ 800 Elmira Ave Durham NC 27707
Interment: Oak Grove Cemetery
Send an encouraging word to the family to express your condolences while they grieve at this time
Send flowers to the service of Michael Gerald Copeland
I am sending my condolences. We were academy mates Academy 5 DPD. He was a good person we were young and excited to serve the city of Durham. I am happy to see that he pursued other passion. I nice person. I send my prayer of comfort to the family.
Sending heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family of Michael Copeland. I remember him leading the cadence during basic training. He was a good guy and loved people. Rest in peace Mike.
My deepest condolences and prayers to Jesika,Mr.Gerald and the entire Copland and Harris family. My his smile and sweet memories remain with you all .
To the Copeland family-I went to high school with Mike and Jessica and Im shocked to hear of Mike's passing. You all have my deepest sympathy and may God bless you.
Celebrating the life of Mike...What a guy! He always shared his smile & sense of humor with everyone. The lyrics to the song "Finally Home" come to mind. "Just think of it - stepping on shore & finding it Heaven or touching a hand & finding it God's...or breathing new air & finding it celestial....of waking up in Glory land & finding you are finally home. " Mike is finally home & awaiting each of us. Oh, what a family reunion that will be! Holding Jessica, Gerald & family in my prayers and in my heart
Jessica,
I was saddened to hear of your husband's death. Please know that I am praying for you and the family. Love you Lynn Evans
My deepest condolences and prayers to Jessica and the Copeland family. God bless you
Jessica, may comfort you in this time of sorrow knowing that you are never alone. God loves you and so do I. Joan Cozart
Gerald and Jessica God as gain a another angel. Mike was like a son to me. I always enjoyed having him come to see us. If I was cooking he would eat with us. He always made us laugh and he was always smiling. He had a special place in our hearts. I always will remember him and Gerald would go out to eat and Mike always would get his Dad to come by the house and he would bring me a plate also. I love you Mike and I will miss your smiling face. Go test in peace now with no more pain.
Gerald and Jessica God as gain a another angel. Mike was like a son to me. I always enjoyed having him come to see us. If I was cooking he would eat with us. He always made us laugh and he was always smiling. He had a special place in our hearts. I always will remember him and Gerald would go out to eat and Mike always would get his Dad to come by the house and he would bring me a plate also. I love you Mike and I will miss your smiling face. Go test in peace now with no more pain.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.