of Brookland, AR

June 7, 1949 - March 3, 2024

Gelenda Velva Derlene Cope, 74, was born on June 7, 1949 in Jonesboro, AR to the late Guy and Velma Richardson. She was a native of Brookland, AR for the entire 74 years of her life. Surrounded by her precious family, Gelenda entered the gates of Heaven on March 3, 2024 at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.

Gelenda was a proud Bearcat, graduating from Brookland in 1967. She went on to work for Jonesboro Grocery Company and General Electric. In 1982, Gelenda landed a job in Human Resources at St. Bernards Hospital. She carried out the role of payroll clerk for St. Bernards for 20 years. After working in payroll, she chose to move to the St. Bernards Engineering Department where she retired on March 29, 2012. She was a St. Bernard's employee for over 30 years. Lifelong friendships were made at St. Bernards that continued throughout her life.

Gelenda was a loving and active Memaw to her sweet grandbabies and great grandbabies. She took them on four-wheeler rides, taught them how to make homemade biscuits and played with them at every opportunity. Gelenda is survived by one daughter, Kristi Young (George) and by her three grandchildren, Ashton Young, Jeremy (Rachel) Young and Mary-Catherine (Colton) Brown. She was Memaw to her five great-grandchildren, River and Raylee Young and Ryker, Sutton and Wiley Brown. Her grands were her pride and joy. She loved being a Memaw and it showed.

Gelenda was preceded in death by one sister, Leila Weaver of Brookland, as well as her parents, Guy and Velma Richardson also of Brookland.

In addition to her precious grands, Gelenda leaves behind her loving husband of over 56 years, Gary Cope of the home. Gary cared for her diligently throughout her dementia illness. Gelenda and Gary shared their love of watching the Cardinals play baseball and playing with their grandchildren. Her daughter, Kristi was her best friend and travel buddy. They enjoyed trips to Hawaii, Branson and many beach trips together.

Gelenda loved gardening and growing flowers. She loved traveling, especially with her two best high school buddies, Marsha Mote Brandt of Cincinnati and Linda Morgan Shipman of Fort Worth, TX. She always looked forward to the next trip. In addition to traveling, Gelenda served as church secretary and Sunday School teacher at Needham Assembly of God for most of her life. She was of the Assembly of God faith. Gelenda loved serving God and singing ''specials'' when asked. Old church hymns were her favorite.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 2pm at Roller Farmers Union Funeral Home in Jonesboro, AR with Melvan Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Log Cemetery in Brookland, AR.

Visitation will precede the service beginning at 1pm.

Honored to serve as pall bearers are Jeremy Young, Sam Malone, Colton Brown and Stan Jones.

Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home
1900 West Washington Ave.
Jonesboro, AR  72401
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com