SR0295 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0295 LRB104 13481 MST 25920 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Mary Jo Copeland, who passed away on April 17, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland was born in Cropwell, Alabama to Earlie and Annie O'Neal on December 16, 1936; she moved to Decatur in 1956 and married Edward "Eddie" Copeland; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland worked for many years at GE Manufacturing before beginning a second career at Decatur Township and always carried herself with dignity, integrity, and a deep sense of commitment; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland was a lifelong and faithful member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as an usher and choir member; she was also an esteemed member of St. Mary's Chapter #65 Order of the Eastern Star in Decatur; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland was a legendary cook, known far and wide for her homemade dressing, creamy macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato pies, which brought family and friends together around the table; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland was an avid sports fan, and she often spent her weekends watching college basketball, college football, and professional football; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland had a unique gift for making people feel special; her honest words and heartfelt presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her, and her presence always made things better; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edward "Eddie" Copeland; her brother, Lenford O'Neal; and her sister, Irene Butler; and

WHEREAS, Mary Jo Copeland is survived by her son, Mylas (Casey) Copeland; her grandchildren, Aesen and Darby Copeland; her siblings, Thelma Jones, James (Mollie) O'Neal, and Earnestine O'Neal; her sister, Marcelene Ragland; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Mary Jo Copeland and extend our sincere condolences to he family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Mary Jo Copeland as an expression of our deepest sympathy.