Herschal Ray Copeland

Hershal Ray Copeland, 69, passed away on July 3, 2026. He will be remembered as a hardworking adventurous, and resourceful man whose love for God, family, craftmanship, and the open road shaped a life filled with determination and quiet accomplishment. He served his country in the Navy. He was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church all his life.

Born June 9, 1957, in Farmington, New Mexico. Hershal was the youngest child in the family. His father often said he was determined to “raise a perfect kid” and from him Hershal learned the value of hard work, integrity and using his hands to build and repair.

In the late 1990’s Hershal moved to Sacramento, California with little more than an old pick-up truck and a dream. There he purchased a backhoe, truck and trailer, earned his contractor license and worked for a major building contractor excavating foundations for new homes. He bought a Harley Davidson and explored the beauty of Northern California. In 2008 he returned home to Farmington.

In November of 2015 Hershal traveled to the Philippines to meet Rachel Roxas who he exchanged messages and video calls with for about a year. On December 26, 2016, they were married and he gained a son Artchel Roxas. Hershal decided to move permanently to the Philippines so they could build a life together. He often said that the years he spent living in the Philippines were among the best years of his life.

In 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic, Hershal returned to the States and began Over the Road Truck Driving. An occupation he truly loved.

In October 2024, Rachel and Artchel joined Hershal in the States where they grew as a family and had many adventures until Hershal passed away at home on July 3, 2026.

Hershal is survived by his wife Rachel and his son Artchel, his brother Jimmy (Donna), sister Ellen (Ernie) Stromeyer, numerous nieces and nephews, his church family at Pinon Hills SDA church, and many friends from along the way.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 11:00am at the Pinon Hills SDA Church, 5001 Foothills Drive, Farmington, New Mexico.