Shirley married the love of her life, John E. Copeland, on November 16, 1958, at East Nashville General Baptist Church. Together, Shirley and John were devoted members of East Nashville General Baptist Church in Nashville for more than 50 years. Their faith and service to the Lord were an important part of their lives and their family.
Shirley loved the Lord deeply and faithfully served Him throughout her life. She shared her love of music by playing the piano at church alongside John, who served as a deacon and song leader. Their years of worship and service together were a beautiful testament to their faith, love, and devotion.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John E. Copeland; and brother, Glendon (Nina) Pruitt
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Taffy (Thomas “Bubba”), Johnny (Kelly), and Dee Dee (Diana); grandchildren, Thomas, BJ (Cassidy), Brian, Leia (Kelly), and Lora; great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Alyssa, Adyson, Channing, Charlotte, Hayden, and Kash; brother Rev. Samuel Pruitt (Darlene)
Shirley will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love for her family, her gift of music, and the many years she devoted to serving the Lord alongside her husband. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and all who knew and loved her.
A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at Mount Olivet Funeral Home & Cemetery, 1101 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37210, on Monday, August 10, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Funeral Service will be held at Mount Olivet Funeral Home & Cemetery on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Funeral Home & Cemetery, 1101 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37210, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Shirley’s earthly journey is complete, but her faith, love, music, and legacy will continue through the family she loved so dearly.
