Wooster mourns the passing of Lolly Copeland, former first lady of the College
Laura “Lolly” Harper Copeland, former first lady of the College, passed away on Jan. 26, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina, at the age of 89. Copeland served the College community for 18 years throughout the time her husband, Henry Copeland, was president of the College.
Graduating from Huntingdon College in Alabama, Copeland taught English in Griffin, Georgia before coming to Wooster in 1966 when Henry Copeland joined the history department at the College.
From 1977 to 1995, during Henry Copeland’s term as president, Lolly Copeland emerged as a trusted partner and ambassador for the College. She played a key role in fostering strong relationships among the College, the Wooster Board of Trustees, and the broader community, establishing regular opportunities for trustees’ spouses to visit campus and explore the surrounding area, helping them feel genuinely connected to Wooster. Her warmth, intelligence, and meticulous attention to detail helped strengthen bonds that supported the College during a period of significant growth.
Copeland was widely known for her keen eye for design and her hands-on involvement in shaping the campus environment. She worked closely with architects on projects including the Gault Alumni Center, Luce Hall, Kenarden Lodge, and the design of terrace of the President’s House. A frequent visitor to the College’s Special Collections, she sought out historic photographs, incorporating Wooster’s history throughout campus.
Her commitment to stewardship extended to the landscape itself. After more than 300 campus trees were lost to Dutch elm disease, Copeland worked with facilities to lead efforts to replant native maple and oak trees, resilient and long-lasting species that would welcome students for years to come. She also worked with facilities staff to enhance campus landscaping, frequently organizing receptions and celebrations of the College’s achievements.
Copeland was deeply invested in the Wooster community. She served on the boards of Main Street Wooster and the Wayne Center for the Arts, being a part of the organization since its earliest days. She also worked closely with the Chamber of Commerce, strengthening ties between the College and the city. Copeland was a strong supporter of women’s athletics and took a personal interest in students, alumni, and families, often keeping in touch years after graduation. Parents and alumni recall her kindness, remarkable memory, and genuine curiosity about their lives.
During her years in Wooster, Copeland was also active as a volunteer, supporting the College nursery school, now Wooster Preschool, and volunteering as an English tutor. Copeland’s full obituary is available here.
Posted in News on February 9, 2026.
