James "Jim" Copley

James Copley (Jim) was born September 3rd,1942 in Franklin, Nebraska. Jim’s father Christian Copley (born in Franklin, Nebraska) and mother Audra Wistrand Copley (born in Wray, Colorado) both lived, farmed, and died in Franklin Nebraska. His parents were the recipients of Jim’s greatest love and admiration growing up teaching him the importance of God, Family, and honest and faithful work. Just like his parents - Jim’s heart and soul was poured into his share of the land, animals, and crops in Riverton, Nebraska. Up until his last breath Jim faithfully and lovingly tended the Copley Farm for he and his siblings, which encompassed several counties in Nebraska and Kansas.

Jim excelled in high school track & field and football. He went on to play football for Sterling College in Kansas, where he found the love of his life – Shirley Barson. The college sweethearts soon married and had four lovely children – Mark, Carrie, Chris, and Leah. Jim was a devoted husband and father and spent all of his spare time encouraging, praying for, teaching by both word and example, and loving his family. Jim is survived by his wife of sixty-two years Shirley Copley, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by children Mark Copley (Wendy), Carrie Garcia (Gus), Chris Copley (Clara), and Leah Kudlak (John). Jim’s grandchildren are Kayla Cerquozzi (Anthony), Marina Copley, Nicole Copley, Carina Copley, Natasha Kudlak, Alex Kudlak, and Katie Copley.

Jim is pre-deceased by both his parents, as well as his sister Ruth Hostetler (Roger), and brother Paul Copley (Cindy). Jim is survived by his beloved sister JoAnn Hossler (Jim) and many family and extended family members.

At Franklin High School in Nebraska he held the track and field record until just a few years ago for the 220 yard and 100 yard dash! That’s almost sixty years to hold the high school record! He worked in the banking industry for most of his professional life. He excelled in management and then advanced to VP at many banks in Pennsylvania before moving to and ultimately retiring in Florida. Jim was a member of and volunteered at many churches. He deeply loved his family, friends, and neighbors. Jim faithfully worked hard, sacrificed much, served, and shared with those in need. God commands us to “Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, soul, mind, and strength.” Undoubtedly Jim has been welcomed home to Heaven and greeted with the words “Well done, thy good and faithful servant!”

A Celebration of Life service for James Copley is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2026 at the Evangelical Free Church of Franklin. The family will receive guests between 10 am through 11 am. The Celebration of Life Service will begin promptly at 11:00 a.m. and led by Pastor Bill Stearns. A light luncheon will be served at 12:00 Noon for those in attendance. Jim will be Laid to Rest by the Immediate Family at the Greenwood Cemetery, next door. Those planning to attend the luncheon, please rsvp # in your party to LSCopley@aol.com