Ulysses Tyrina Copeland, affectionately known as “Dada,” “U.T.,” Cope” and “Doc,” transitioned into eternal rest on May 7, 2017.

He was born on Oct. 31, 1928, to the late Lee Talmadge Copeland and Erma Cross Copeland. He was predeceased by brothers, Lee H. Copeland (infant) and Oliver W. Copeland; and son-in-law, Kelvin Jenkins.

He graduated from Nansemond County Training School in 1946. After graduation, he relocated to New Jersey and became a Master Barber. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served in the Korean War and was honorably discharged on Dec. 29, 1952.

He married the former Edith Virginia Baker, and to this union, six children were born: one son, Eric Copeland, and five daughters, Patrina Copeland, Reneè Rose (Keith), Erma Goodman (Donald), Rosa Copeland Miller (Max) and Cherita Copeland-Jenkins.

He is also survived by brothers, Alfred Copeland, James Copeland, Lemuel Copeland (Hedy) and Waymond Copeland (Sharon); 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; lifetime buddy, Murray “Bud” Johnson; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Copeland’s visitation will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home, and the family will receive guests at 1209 B Street, Suffolk, at all other times. He will lie in state at Corinth Chapel UCC at noon on Friday, followed by the funeral service with military honors at 2 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy and flowers may be extended to the family at www.cookeovertonfuneralhome.com.

Professional services are entrusted to T.E. Cooke-Overton Funeral Home Inc.