Thomas Nelson Copeland, age 74 and a long-time resident of Shirley, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Lowell General Hospital. He was the devoted husband of 53 years to Patricia E. (McDonald) Copeland.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 8, 1952, Tommy was the son of the late William “Bougie” and Anne F. “Sis” (Gillespie) Copeland. Tommy was raised and educated in the Everett Public Schools, graduating from Everett High School. He continued his education at the Malden Business School and soon enlisted in the United States Navy and the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for 22 years, achieving the rank of SFC. While enlisted, he earned an associate’s degree in business from Mount Wachusett Community College. Tommy worked for many years at the VA Hospital until his retirement.

Tommy’s career with the military afforded him and Pat the opportunity to travel the United States and abroad, including Germany, before eventually being stationed on Fort Devens in the 10th Group. Upon Tommy’s retirement from the Army, they settled in Shirley, where together they raised their children. Tommy enjoyed many happy times with family and friends, and especially his grandchildren. Tommy remembered birthdays and anniversaries without fail. He spent time golfing with friends, traveling with family, doing genealogy research, collecting coins, and mostly completing home projects. Tommy was a devoted Red Sox fan but preferred whatever team his grandsons played on.

Along with his devoted wife, he is survived by his children, Shaun C. Copeland of Ayer, Bryan K. Copeland and his wife, Emily, of Townsend, and Scott N. Copeland and his wife, Susan, of Ayer. He was the proud “Gus” to his grandchildren, Austin Senn, Jillian Copeland, Keith Copeland, Everett Copeland, Theodore Copeland, and Carter Copeland, as well as his trusted canine companion, Charlie Copeland. Tommy also leaves a tight-knit extended family that he cherished and adored.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Tommy for a period of visitation on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King Street, Littleton. His burial with U.S. Military Honors will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon, MA. Anyone able to attend is welcome. 

Donations in his memory may be made to:
American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 6704
Hagerstown, MD 21741 
American Cancer Society/">https://American Cancer Society/
Please download the donation form if mailing a check
  

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com.