Joann Copeland

JoAnn Goebel Copeland, 84, peacefully went to Paradise on Monday, November 5, 2018 after a long-fought battle with cancer.

She was born on May 31, 1934 in Port Arthur, Texas, was baptized on June 3, 1934 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Port Arthur and was confirmed on March 30, 1947 at Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville. After attending Smithville public schools, she worked at KTRH in Houston, KOKE in Austin, and KHFI (now KXAN-TV) in Austin. She helped run family-owned businesses after she left broadcasting. She spent many years as the caregiver of her parents. Known as Grammy or Buddy to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was much like a momma bear who protected and defended her family. She deeply loved her family and her Lord and Savior.

Survivors include her sister, Jean and husband Dan Rather of New York and Austin; her children, Michael and wife Marlene Wallace of La Grange, Craig and wife Connie Wallace of Smithville, Karla and husband Jeff Burns of Smithville, and John and wife Brenda Wallace of Smithville; 9 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are Patty and husband Rodney Langer as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Hilda Goebel; sister, Caron Zimmerhanzel; and grandson, Stephen Wallace II.

Pallbearers are Sean Wallace, Ryan Wallace, Joshua Wallace, Tim Garner, Luke Garner, Brec Earp, Michael Hancock, Matthew Cafrelli and Kyle Wallace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas.

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