05/27/2026
Chief Copeland spent more than 35 years serving the citizens of Texarkana and the Texarkana Fire Department before retiring in 2016. During that time, he built a career that touched nearly every part of the department.
He started as a Firefighter, promoted to Driver/Engineer, served in the Fire Marshal’s Office, promoted to Captain, later became Battalion Chief, served in the Training Division, and even helped LEAD the department for a period of time. He eventually retired from the Fire Marshal’s Office as a Battalion Chief.
That kind of career says a lot about his dedication, knowledge, and commitment to the job.
But Kenny was more than his rank or title. He was one of those people you just didn’t forget. He had a story for everything, a personality all his own, and a way of making an impression on everyone around him.
If you knew Kenny, chances are you have a story about him or you sat through one of his, maybe longer than you planned. But those are the memories that will stick with us.
He gave a lot to this department, this city, and the people around him.
Rest easy, Chief Copeland. You earned it.
