Honoring a Clemson Man of Integrity: Remembering Ron Copeland

May 14, 2024, 8:57 PM

In the Clemson community, where passion and loyalty run deep, it’s the people behind the cheers that truly define what it means to be a fan. Today, I want to honor a remarkable individual, my stepfather, Ron Copeland, not just for his unwavering support for Clemson but for the incredible man that he was, whose recent passing has left a void in our hearts.

Ron was a man of profound integrity and character. His moral compass guided him through life with a quiet, steadfast faith that he chose not to wear on his sleeve. He lived his values in every action, even in small, everyday deeds like meticulously sorting recyclables in Charleston—a city that did not require it—and driving them to a facility that could process them. This was just one of the many ways Ron demonstrated his commitment to doing right, often doing honorable things when no one was looking.

His quiet benevolence extended to unsung donations to causes close to his heart, such as charities supporting wounded police officers, servicemen, and organizations like Habitat for Humanity. These acts of generosity only came to light after his passing, painting a picture of a man who truly embodied the spirit of giving without seeking recognition.

Ron was also a thoughtful planner who ensured the well-being of his family with immense care, securing two life insurance policies and ongoing insurance to provide for my mother indefinitely. He embraced the role of a father to three boys from a previous marriage, caring for them as his own with great love and responsibility.

Each evening, Ron found solace and strength in reading Bible passages, a practice that grounded him and reinforced the principles he lived by.

As we remember Ron, we celebrate not just a fan of the game but a man who played the game of life with honor, love, and an unwavering ethical stance. He will be greatly missed, not only at the roaring games in the stadium but in the quiet moments that remind us of his profound influence and character.

https://www.mcalister-smith.com/obituaries/ronald-copeland