SMETHPORT — John R. “Jughead” Copeland, 87, of Smethport passed away Thursday (April 3, 2025) at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born May 24, 1937, in Turtle Creek, a son of the late Henry Copeland and Pearl Nellis, as well as his stepfather, George “Bud” Young, and stepmother, Dee Copeland. On Aug. 25, 1979, in Plum, he married Calonae Dawne Nelson, who passed away Dec. 2, 2024.

Mr. Copeland was an engineman third class, serving honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959 on the USS Strickland.

He then worked as a generator mechanic traveling all over the world for Westinghouse of Pittsburgh, until he retired in 2007.

John enjoyed golfing, reading the morning newspaper, watching westerns, a cold dark draft beer and a good tomato.

He was loved and will be missed deeply by those who survive, including a daughter, Cindy Hamilton of Smethport; grandchildren Christi (Garry) Kisko, Tanya (Ryan) Brown, William Gaskin, Brianna (Ron) Hunter, Robert and Jason Sherry and Paul Betters; great-grandchildren Justin (Jenna) Burgess, Kadence (Valerie) Kisko, Baylee and Hayden Brown and Blandon, Korbin and Trent Hunter; great-greatgrandson, Kian Kisko; one brother, William (JoAnn) Copeland; one sister, Marsha (Tom) Silvo; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, John was preceded in death by his daughters Michele Sherry and Monique Overly; sonin- law Alan Hamilton; and grandson Mark McCracken.

In keeping with John’s wishes, funeral services will be held privately with the family. A public celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. April 17 at Smethport VFW.

John’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to his hospice nurse, Gert, and aide, Faith, as well as all of the home health professionals who provided excellent care to him over the past few months to honor his wishes of staying at home.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to Potter County Hospice or VFW Post 2497 of Smethport.

Arrangements are under direction of Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc. Online condolences may be made at hartle- tarboxfuneralhomes. com.