Brenda Joyce Copeland Stubbs (77) departed this life on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Born on January 20, 1947, in Prentiss County, she was the cherished daughter of the late Roy Copeland and Margaret Hazel Copeland. Brenda embraced her faith early in life, becoming a devoted member of Mt. Zion Community Church, where her spirit flourished in fellowship and service.
An alumna of Lee Prentiss High School’s Class of 1965, Brenda’s passion for education led her to Mississippi Valley State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Education in 1970. Her commitment to learning continued at Mississippi State University, where she received a Master of Education degree in 1975. Brenda’s academic journey was also marked by her membership in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., a testament to her dedication to community service and excellence.
Brenda’s teaching career began in 1971 at Church Street Elementary in Tupelo, marking the start of a lifelong mission to inspire and nurture young minds. Her journey took her to Lane College in Jackson, TN, where she served as a Counselor of Student Support Services and Upward Bound from 1976 to 1996. Brenda continued her dedication to teaching upon returning to Mississippi, where she enriched the lives of students at Okolona Elementary School until her retirement in 2013. A dedicated educator, Brenda’s legacy is defined by her unwavering commitment to her students.
Brenda was a devoted wife to the late Roy Stubbs, Jr., and she is lovingly remembered by her three sons, Roderick (Shirley) Stubbs of Oxford, GA, Kenderick (Ria) Stubbs of Centerville, VA, and Jaris Stubbs of Houston, TX; four grandchildren, David, Kendria, Kerick, and Kersten; a brother, Roy Jr. (Edna) Copeland of Kansas City, MO; sisters-in-law, Dr. Mary Gonsoulin of Ada, OK, and Abby Scott of Guntown, MS; along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who were touched by her grace and kindness.
She was preceded in death, Roy and Margaret Hazel Copeland, and three siblings, Margaret Ann Stubbs of Baldwyn, MS, Linda Copeland Wright of Verona, MS, and Alvin Copeland of Baldwyn, MS.
