Marianne Copley

Born on October 19, 1940, in Glashütten, Czechoslovakia to Johann and Theresia Koch, Marianne met the love of her life, Sherman Copley Sr., while he was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army. They traveled back and forth between Germany and the U.S., and retired at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA.

Marianne worked as a dedicated accounts manager in the healthcare industry, bringing sharp intellect and diligence to everything she did. But beyond her career, her true joys were found in the quiet beauty of her garden, the cheerful chatter of birds, and sharing home cooked meals with her family.

She was a woman of strong will, resilience, and the kind of person who faced life’s challenges head-on with courage. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, ambition, and deep devotion to those she loved.

Marianne is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Sherman Copley Sr.; her dear son, Norman Copley; and her sister, Gerlinde Münzer. She is survived by her children, Sherman Copley Jr. and Lydia Stephens (Doug); her cherished grandchildren, Doug Stephens and Anna Belle Munson (Zach); her sister, Johanna Fennell (Marcus); and many nephews, nieces, and their children.

A memorial service to celebrate Marianne’s life will be held on July 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Sunroom at the Gardens of Calvary. The family wishes to thank the loving staff of Calvary Assisted Living and Columbus Hospice for the special care they provided to Marianne.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Calvary Assisted Living/Calvary Baptist Church https://thegardensatcalvary.com/donations-needed/ or Columbus Hospice https://www.columbushospice.com/donate