07/21/2025
Donald Wilbur Copeland Jr., affectionately known as βDee,β 49, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on June 19, 2025. He was born on August 18, 1975 to Sandra Denise Copeland and the late Donald Wilbur Copeland Sr. Dee was a one-of-a-kind spirit β bold, hilarious, and full of life.
With his big smile and loud laugh, Dee lit up every room he entered. His ability to entertain was effortless β whether he was singing on stage, performing in the streets, or simply sharing a moment with those nearby. In his later years, videos of his raw, powerful voice and personality began to spread across social media, allowing countless others to experience the spirit Chattanooga had always known: a man whose art came from the soul and spoke to the heart.Through his art and wisdom, he will continually remind us that the love of God is real, community impact matters, and redemption is always possible.
He attended Howard High School and was a member of Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church, where his presence and voice were deeply felt.
Dee was preceded in death by his father, Donald Wilbur Copeland Sr.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving mother, Sandra Denise Copeland; his children, Deshayla Copeland, Ateana Copeland, Noah Hethcoat, and Donella Hethcoat; and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Calvin Copeland, Pamela Copeland, and Regina Copeland; nieces, Jayla Copeland and Jaikaiya Kalaukoa; and nephews, Justin Copeland, Dewayne Ervin Jr., Calvin Murray, Jamari Copeland, Dontrell Copeland, Ryan Roshell, Zacharian Copeland, Eleven J. Copeland, and Captain C. Leeper. Dee also leaves behind a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones who were blessed to know and love him.
Public viewing will be held at 11:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025 at John P. Franklin Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 3:00 PM in the chapel of John P. Franklin Funeral Home.
