Evangelist Betty Alston Coppage was born on February 1, 1943 in Warrenton, North Carolina to loving parents, Harry M. Alston and Madie L. Allen. She was the second of five children: Harry Jr., Betty, Lawrence, Willie Watson and Lee Floyd.
Betty received her early education in North Carolina and attended Hawkins High School. As a young woman, she relocated to Brooklyn, New York where she met and married the late Tommy Coppage.
A woman of deep faith, Betty became a devoted member of Holy Dove Church of God in Christ. Her love for God and the church would shape her life and legacy. Professionally, she was a dedicated and hardworking employee at Brooklyn Hospital, where she faithfully served for 40 years as an EKG Technician, retiring at the age of 63.
Following retirement, Betty and Tommy moved to Conyers, Georgia to live with her daughter Jackie and son-in-law, Anthony. While in Georgia, she continued her faith journey and became a member of Faith Deliverance Church. It was there that she accepted her calling of ministry and was licensed as an Evangelist.
Betty was known for her sweet, loving spirit and her willingness to pray and help anyone in need. Her vibrant energy was unmatched; she never knew how to sit still. She was constantly moving, always finding ways to serve, uplift and bring joy to others. Her passion for gospel music and spirituals filled her home as she worked on her beloved puzzle books.
A phenomenal cook, Betty's fried chicken was legendary, and many of her treasured recipes went with her. She also had a talent for sewing and gladly mended clothing for family and friends with pride and joy. Betty had the rare gift of being a comforting listener, offering wisdom without judgment, and always sharing a warm, welcoming smile.
Betty cherished her family deeply, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored. Later in life, she moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina with her daughter, Jackie and granddaughter, Tiffany. There, she joined Covenant of Hope Church, where Bishop Jeanette Vaughns honored her as the Mother of the Church, a title she wore with grace and humility.
Evangelist Betty Alston Coppage was a pillar of strength, faith and love. She was well respected and deeply cherished by all who knew her. Her absence leaves a great void, but her memory will live on in the hearts of many. She will be missed tremendously.
Betty will be leaving behind her daughter, Jacqueline Garard; granddaughter, Tiffany Garard; grandson, Anthony Garard; great grandchildren: Ibri, Jahlani, Josila and Tonya Garard; a brother, Lee Floyd Alston (Gwenn), a sister Willie Watson and a host of other cousins, nieces and nephews.