A Republican Party leader in Alabama took his own life after his private pictures of his “hobby” of dressing in women’s clothing were published by a conservative news website last week.
FL “Bubba” Copeland, the Republican mayor of Alabama’s Smiths Station and the pastor at First Baptist Church in Phenix City, reportedly shot himself with a handgun when police visited him for a wellness check.
His church posted thanks for the outpouring of prayers and condolences following Copeland’s tragic death on social media.
“Thank you all for your prayers and expressions of sympathy and support. First and foremost, we ask that you keep Pastor Bubba Copeland’s family in your prayers today, and in the days ahead,” the church said in a statement.
“We greatly appreciate your messages, comments, and encouragement. Please continue to pray for us as we move forward in sharing God’s love to all people.”
Copeland had shared his distress with his church during a sermon on Wednesday.
“I’ve been the object of an internet attack,” Copeland said after the pictures he’d taken with his wife “in the privacy of our home” were shared by the conservative news site 1819 News.
In his sermon he apologized to the church for “any embarrassment” caused by his “private and personal life.”
“What I do in private life has nothing to do with what I do in my holy life,” Copeland had told the news site when asked for a quote. “Does this have any effect on me being mayor, that I sometimes put on a dress or sometimes put on makeup? Does that have anything to do whatsoever with me being mayor or being a pastor?”
On social media, users expressed dismay and sadness over the news of Copeland’s passing.
“My deepest condolences to the family, and your community. There is no end of hate in this world, but the Bible brings a message of love and acceptance for all. Check on your neighbors, friends, and family,” wrote one user. “Let them know you love them, and always will, no matter who they are. Let them know they are safe with you, and always will be. In a time of such division, love and acceptance is more important than ever. Hold pastor Copeland up as a reason for change in the community, and the world. May we live in a time where such a tragedy never happens again.”
Funeral arrangements have been prepared for Thursday, Nov. 9th at 3:00 p.m. Eastern for Copeland.
If you or someone you know is in distress or needs help, text or call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support. You can also text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
The Horn editorial team