Community says farewell to Brother Max

by Alexandria Randolph

The community of Marble Falls lost a long-loved man of God on Monday, May 25.

Max Collier Copeland, or as most knew him, “Brother Max.” Copeland, 85, died at his home in Marble Falls, the community to which he had devoted the majority of his life.

Copeland came to Marble Falls from the community of Briggs in 1958 to serve as pastor for the First Baptist Church of Marble Falls.

“He was our pastor for 42 years before he retired in 2000,” said First Baptist Associate Pastor Weldon French. “He had been teaching Sunday school since then... He was with us a total of 57 years.”

Upon retirement, Copeland became Pastor Emeritus for First Baptist Church.

French, who describes Copeland as his mentor, said the man was “always available to people and caring for people. He did thousands of funerals and a number of hospital visits.”

Copeland was also known for performing weddings on his front porch or in his living room.

“He always wanted to be around people and always wanted to talk about Jesus. He would talk to anybody who would listen,” French said. “He was devoted to serving the Lord. He was tireless; it seemed like he never quit.”

Former Burnet County Judge Martin McLean, a long-time friend of Copeland, said the man would spend hours talking with people who had experienced a loss, sickness or other strife.

“I want people to know what he did, because he never talked about it,” McLean said. “He took calls at night at home. Whether it was a transient or a family with a serious issue, he would be there. There are not a lot of people willing to be available for situations like that. I'm not sure how he will be replaced.”

For more on Copeland, see Friday's Highlander.