Obituary of Estella Copeland

ROCHESTER, NY – April 10, 2024 Estella Copeland was born March 23, 1955, in Rochester, NY to the late Cornelius Sr. and Zeffie Lee (Taylor) Griffin. Estella was affectionately known as "San" to family and friends. She married Larry Copeland. She was employed by ABC Headstart Rochester, NY as a(n) Center Director. After she graduated from Brockport University in 1986 with her bachelor's she was employed with Action for a Better Community, Inc (ABC) for over 30 years and retired in December 2018. Estella started her career as a Head Start Teacher and was later promoted to an Education Disability Specialist. She then worked her way up to become the Assistant Center Director and eventually Center Director. Estella was a model employee and had a real passion for working with the children and families in the Head Start program. She was dedicated and could always be seen with a smile on her face. She always had time to listen to staff and provided resources for families in need. She was always available to lend a hand. She often talked about traveling and going fishing. She left a legacy at ABC Head Start where she will be truly missed by all. In her spare time, Estella loved spending time with family and friends. She loved to cook with her sister Dana. She was known for cooking large feasts and would feed anyone who came by to visit. She always made sure to cook macaroni and cheese for her grandchildren. Estella also enjoyed spending time with the Golden Girls. They loved to travel, and plan get togethers for their families and friends. The Golden Girls were an important part of her life. Estella departed this life on April 8, 2024. She is predeceased by; her three brothers, Cornelius Griffin Jr., Howard Griffin, and Lloyd Griffin Sr., and one sister, Aldana Griffin. Estella leaves to cherish her memories; her husband, Larry Copeland Sr.; two sons, Larry T. (Akilah) Copeland Jr., and Tyshawn; one step-daughter, LaToya Cole; ten grandchildren, Vanity Jones, Nigel Copeland, Larry T. Copeland Ill, NuQuienty Cole, LaTaya Cole, Aysha Cole, Montrice Cole, Katonna Torres and Braylen Daniels, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Friends may call Thursday, April 18 from 10:00AM - 12:00 PM at Aenon Baptist Church, 175 Genesee Street, Rochester, NY. The Funeral Service to Celebrate her life will immediately follow. Interment Riverside Cemetery, Rochester, NY.