David Copeland, who had a long tenure in the Tennessee General Assembly and authored the Copeland Amendment as a cap on state spending, has died at the age of 88.
The longtime Ooltewah resident was in the Tennessee House from 1968-1992.
Mr. Copeland ran for Governor in 1994 with his daughter Valerie Copeland Rutledge, as his campaign manager.
He launched a family business, Copelands, Inc. in 1965. It is still operated by his son, Mike.
Voters approved the Copeland Cap in 1978, limiting the growth of state government.
UTC in 2015 dedicated the Copeland Conference Room. His wife, Mary, was also honored.
Mr. Copeland was long active in the James County Historical Society.
Arrangements will be by Chattanooga Funeral Home at the East Brainerd Chapel.