A small community in Alabama is mourning and expressing outrage over the suicide of their esteemed mayor, following severe online bullying. Mayor FL “Bubba” Copeland of Smiths Station, aged 49, took his own life on November 3rd amidst efforts by local police to check on his wellbeing, according to a statement from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
The town is reeling from the loss, with Larry DiChiara, a long-time acquaintance of Copeland and former superintendent of Phenix City schools, reflecting on the deep impact of his passing. “We lost a good man in a very senseless and tragic way. The community is all broken up about it,” DiChiara remarked, highlighting Copeland’s irreplaceable nature.
During a recent Sunday worship, David White, a member of the First Baptist Church where Copeland served as pastor, spoke about the congregation’s unwavering support and love for Copeland, contradicting any negative implications suggested by media coverage.
Copeland was honored and remembered for his “heart of gold” at his funeral three days prior. His well-being had become a concern after 1819 News, a far-right Alabama website, leaked images of him in women’s attire and excerpts of erotic fiction he had penned. The site also shared details from social media accounts where Copeland identified as a transgender woman. Despite confirming his ownership of these accounts, Copeland clarified that cross-dressing was a stress-relieving hobby and pleaded with 1819 News not to publish such personal details.
Despite attempts to contact 1819 News’ editorial team by The Guardian, no response was provided. In his final sermon, Copeland addressed the controversy, apologizing for any embarrassment while asserting he had nothing to be ashamed of and accusing the media of taking things out of context. Reports, including one from the Los Angeles Blade, found no evidence of Copeland ever preaching anti-LGBTQ+ messages.
Community members remember Copeland as an empathetic leader and lament his loss. “I can tell you a majority of the people here loved Mayor Copeland and wish he was still here,” DiChiara said. A eulogy published by the First Baptist Church celebrated Copeland’s dedication to his family, church, city, and community.
Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones commended Copeland’s leadership, especially during the challenging times following a devastating tornado in 2019. Despite Alabama’s increasing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, Copeland was noted for his support of local Pride events. Chad Peacock, a former Auburn resident, suggested that Alabama’s hostile environment towards LGBTQ+ individuals contributed to Copeland’s tragic end.
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