In a shocking turn of events, F.L. “Bubba” Copeland, the mayor of Smiths Station, Tennessee, and pastor at First Baptist Church of Phenix City, Alabama, took his own life on Friday, November 4th, after being outed for dressing up as a ‘transgender curvaceous female’ in a Halloween costume. Copeland was a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication to serving others. However, after information about his ‘alter ego’ was exposed, the 62-year-old mayor passed away.
A Life of Service
Copeland was a well-known figure in the Smiths Station community, where he served as mayor and pastor at First Baptist Church of Phenix City. He was a married father of three and a convenience store owner. Copeland was described as a kind and compassionate person who was dedicated to serving others. He was a Republican and had not taken any public positions against LGBTQ issues that could be construed as hypocritical.
The Scandal
The scandal began when conservative news blog 1819 News published photos of Copeland dressed in women’s clothing and alleged that he was leading a secret life as a transgender woman. The blog also shared screenshots of Copeland’s Reddit and Instagram accounts, where he posted pornography and advice on chemically transitioning. Copeland confirmed that the accounts were run by him, saying they were a “hobby” he used for “getting rid of stress”. Copeland asked 1819 News not to out him, but they did so anyway.
The Tragic End
After a slow pursuit by law enforcement who had been called to do a welfare check, Copeland fatally shot himself in the head with a revolver. Copeland’s death came after 1819 News published pictures of him wearing women’s clothes and makeup. Copeland’s extracurricular activities quickly turned into a community-wide controversy. His church referred to “unbiblical behavior” in a statement, and Copeland reportedly told his parishioners that the article did not represent “who or what I am”.
The Legacy
The death of Bubba Copeland has sparked heartbreak and outrage in the community. Copeland’s legacy is a reminder that even those who seem to have it all together can be struggling with their own demons. It is important to remember that everyone deserves compassion and understanding, regardless of their personal struggles. Copeland’s death is a tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Conclusion
The death of Bubba Copeland is a tragic end to a life of service. Copeland was a beloved figure in the Smiths Station community, known for his dedication to serving others. However, after being outed for dressing up as a ‘transgender curvaceous female,’ Copeland took his own life. Copeland’s legacy is a reminder that everyone deserves compassion and understanding, regardless of their personal struggles. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The family will receive friends on the evening of Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 4:30 pm until 8:00 pm at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City, AL. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm EST on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Phenix City, AL with Dr. Ralph Wooten officiating. A private interment will follow.
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