Alice M. Copeland, 79, of Buckner, MO passed away February 12, 2012 at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Blue Springs, MO, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.  A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, at the Speaks Buckner Chapel, 300 Adams, Buckner, MO. On March 9, 1932, Alice was born to Walter and Grace Savage in Independence, Missouri. She graduated from William Chrisman High School and worked at Katz Drug Store. In 1952, Alice married Eugene V. Copeland. They adopted a son, Paul Alan, in 1966, and later a daughter Amy DeeAnn, 1970. Alice had many talents and hobbies including cake decorating and sewing. In her younger years she decorated birthday and wedding cakes for many friends and family members. Later in life, Alice sewed for her family, the children’s hospital, and for those in nursing homes. Alice was also a long time member of the V.F.W. Women’s Auxiliary and attended meetings regularly, even after suffering a stroke in 2009. Alice loved to travel and went on as many trips with her friends and family members as possible. The most highlighted of these trips included a visit to London, England in 1982 with her husband and daughter and a trip to Hawaii in the 90’s with her good friends. Alice had a wonderful personality. She was compassionate, supportive, and funny, yet she possessed an unwavering strength that carried her through the many rough times of life. She was also the most unselfish woman you would ever come to know, continually placing the needs of others before her own. Whether it was taking a meal to a sick friend or babysitting her own grandchildren, Alice was always there when you needed her. Alice has been that loving, comforting voice at the death bed of so many friends and family members through the years. At her death bed Sunday morning, Alice’s immediate family gathered around and gave their love and prayers to a mom and grandma who will be cherished in their hearts and memories forever. Alice Copeland was preceded in death by her husband, Gene; her parents; her brother, Forest; and her four sisters, Edith, Wanda, Jean, and Mildred. She is survived by her son, Paul Copeland and his wife, Cathy; by her daughter, Amy (Weiskirch) and her husband Rob; and by her grandchildren, Hollie, Heather, Eli, and Micah Copeland, and Robyn and Paige, Weiskirch. She is also survived by many nephews and nieces. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.speakschapel.com  (Arrangements: Speaks Buckner Chapel 816-650-5108)