Herbert “Alan” Copeland, 72, of Elizabeth City, NC passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Born on November 18, 1953, Alan was the son of Lester Taylor Copeland and Celia Nixon Copeland, both deceased. He was the owner/operator of Copeland Communications and Electronics, Inc., Hertford, NC for over 20 years.Alan was the first to supply two-way radio systems and pager services to the Northeastern counties of North Carolina. He installed the first 911 system for the Town of Edenton. Alan fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a pilot. With his private plane, he donated some of his time flying needy children on “Angel Flights” all over the U.S. for their medical care. Upon retirement, he enjoyed traveling to Alaska and traveling in his RV with his beloved dog, Buddy, all over the U.S.

Survivors include his son, Wesley Copeland; daughter, Wendy Taylor Copeland; grandchildren, Katherine and Caleb Copeland; brother, Paul Copeland and wife, Seanna; sister-in-law, Emily Copeland; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Herbert was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph Copeland and Lester Ray Copeland.

Funeral services celebrating Alan’s will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home Chapel, Hertford, NC. Interment will follow in the Ballard’s Bridge Baptist Church Cemetery, Tyner, NC. The family will greet friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home prior to the service in the chapel. At other times the family will greet friends at the residence of Donna and Marc Sandel, 743 Ryland Road, Tyner, NC 27980.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC is assisting the Copeland family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com