V. Earle Copes died July 20 in Sarasota, Florida. After graduating from Davidson with a music major, he obtained two master’s degrees from Union Theological Seminary in New York City. He served as minister of music in several of United Methodism’s largest churches, played organ recitals in 32 states, and composed many hymn tunes and anthems.
He is survived by his wife, Laura (Eakin), with whom he recently celebrated 70 years of marriage; two sons and their wives; and two granddaughters.