Bubba Copeland, a prominent figure in Alabama as both the mayor of a local city and a respected Baptist pastor, ended his own life on a fateful Friday.
The shocking turn of events occurred just one day following the publication of a story on a conservative news website that revealed what they referred to as his “secret life” and included photographs of him dressed in women’s clothing.
Mayor Copeland, who concurrently held the role of pastor at the First Baptist Church of Phenix City, had addressed the issue on the preceding Wednesday, as reported by Yahoo News.
During his communication with church members, he emphasized that the photographs were a private matter and stated that the incident would not alter his dedication to his family, city, and church.
In his statement, Copeland acknowledged, “Yes, I have taken pictures with my wife in the privacy of our home in an attempt at humor because I know I’m not a handsome man nor a beautiful woman, either.
I apologize for any embarrassment caused by my private, personal life.”
On Friday afternoon, authorities in Lee County received a request for a welfare check on the mayor, as reported by the local television station WTVM.
Copeland was discovered in Beulah, an unincorporated community in the northeast corner of Lee County.
Deputies initiated a cautious pursuit of Copeland, who, at one point, pulled over, exited his vehicle, and tragically took his own life using a handgun.
The following day, the church conveyed their gratitude to the public via a Facebook message, appreciating the outpouring of support and prayers.
The message particularly implored the public to keep Pastor Bubba Copeland’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this trying time.
The message read, “First and foremost, we ask that you keep Pastor Bubba Copeland’s family in your prayers today, and in the days ahead.
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.”
