Dorothy L Copeland

Dorothy Louise McIlree Copeland, 84, died peacefully at her home on December 14, 2015 with her family at her side. Dorothy was dearly loved by her daughters Ann and Allison, their partners, Veronica and Theodore, and much of the Cocoa Beach area community. She taught kindergarten for over 20 years and was a long time member and supporter of the Cocoa Beach Community Church. Dorothy was born January 11, 1931 in Washington D.C. where she grew up and attended Wilson Teachers College. In 1955 she married Lloyd Bruce Miller and moved to St. Paul, Minnesota where she began her teaching career. Three years into that career Ann Louise Miller was born, brightening their happy life. In 1963 they moved to Cocoa Beach with the space program and became members of the Cocoa Beach Community Church. A second daughter bringing more joy to their now busy lives, Allison Kay Miller was born in 1966. Several years later their marriage dissolved, and a few years later, Dorothy met Andrew H. Walbert, who was her life partner until his death in 2012. She started out at Children's World in 1967, which later became Cape View Elementary where she spent over 20 years teaching kindergarten. Prior to retiring, she worked as Primary Care Specialist for four years expanding the learning experience for all elementary students at Cape View. She touched many lives at the school from teachers who became lifelong friends to students who will always remember her friendly smile and kind heart. Dorothy was devoted to her church and served it in many capacities. She went above and beyond raising her daughters with love, humor and wisdom, and will be missed more than words can say. A memorial service will be held January 9, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at the Cocoa Beach Community Church located at 126 South Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL. Refreshments and visiting will be immediately following at Sponsler Fellowship Hall at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Health First, 1900 Dairy Road, Melbourne, FL 32904, or to the Cocoa Beach Community Church (address above). Memorial Service JAN 9. 01:00 PM Cocoa Beach Community Church 126 S. Atlantic Avenue Cocoa Beach, FL, US