Jerry Copley

Jerry D. Copley, 80, of Leroy, went to be with the Lord on January 12, 2025 after battling a long illness. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. He was born July 19, 1944 to the late Emmit Copley and Edith LeMaster.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his son Jerry Douglas (Tojo) Copley Jr; one brother, Richard Copley; three sisters Brenda O’Bar, Linda Scites, and Judy Mays. Those left to cherish his memory are his long-term partner, best friend, and wife, Debbie Evans Copley; one daughter Tammy (Gary) Jarrell; one step son, Scott (Rebecca) Evans; one step daughter, Jennifer Evans (Melissa); a very special daughter-in-law, Amie Copley; three grandchildren Jackie Brock III (Christi), Michael Brock (Stephanie), Skylar Carroll (Chris); five step grandchildren, Gabi Evans, Wyatt Madison, Gaige Frazer, Chloe Summers, and Megan Hughart; one great grandchild Jaycee Brock (Dawson); and one sister Patty (Glenn) Nichols; and a host of other nieces and nephews. Jerry was a retired coal miner/blaster for most of his life for Arch Coal and Ruffner Mine. Jerry was a Dale Earnhardt fan and cherished memories with his son Tojo at the races. Jerry also enjoyed four wheelers, hunting, and was a very hard worker. Jerry leaves behind a special message to his best friend, Leroy Starcher,”LDLYN ” lol.

To honor Jerry’s wishes, there will be a short service held at Waybright funeral home on Friday, January 17th at 12p.m..There will be a visitation at 11a.m. until the time of the service with pastor Kit Meades officiating. Burial will follow in the Baptist Grove Cemetery in Liverpool. The family asks that donations be made to the Baptist Grove Cemetery; donations can be made directly to Waybright funeral home. Online memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com