Alabama Mayor F.L. "Bubba" Copeland, who was also a pastor, tragically died by suicide just days after photos of him allegedly wearing women's clothes and makeup were published by a conservative news site, 1819 News. Copeland, known as a "good man and a great mayor," was deeply affected by the exposure and fell victim to the cruelty of the world, according to former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones. The incident has sparked conversations about the harm caused by public shaming and cyberbullying.

The First Baptist Church of Phenix City held a Sunday morning service to grieve the loss of their pastor, where church members sang hymns, asked for prayers, and announced funeral arrangements. Copeland's death came shortly after his final service on Wednesday when he read from the 23rd Psalm, the same chapter that was read during the Sunday service. The church emphasized their commitment to the mission of showing God's love to all people.

Funeral services for Copeland will be held on Thursday at First Baptist of Phenix City, preceded by a visitation on Wednesday. Copeland, a devoted father of three, had previously served as a member of the Lee County School Board and led Smiths Station through the aftermath of a devastating tornado in 2019. The mayor's tragic death has brought attention to the importance of compassion and support in the face of adversity.