James Madison Copeland, IV was born May 3, 1911 in Boyne City, Charlevoix County, Michigan. He was the son of James Madison, III and Adeline (Titsworth) Copeland.

He was married to Virginia Lee Bailey and Margaret M. Ahern.

James and Virginia had two children:

  1. James Madison Copeland, V

  2. Leigh Copeland

James, IV died on September 2, 1968 at the age of 57 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is buried in Flint Memorial Park, Mount Morris, Genesee County, Michigan.