James Nelson Cope

James Nelson Cope, 83, of Cary, NC passed on August 17, 2025. He was born on May 10, 1942 to Mildred Waugh Cope and Carmen Willets Cope in Charleroi, PA. James attended Frazier High School in Perryopolis PA, and West Virginia University. He received his Master’s degree from Cornell University. He served two years in the Army from 1967 to 1969.

James is survived by his spouse of 60 years, Eleanore Evans Cope, and two children, Benjamin Evans Cope of Lovettsville, VA, and Megan Cope Mattson of Apex, NC, as well as 3 grandchildren, Gabriella Joy Cope, Sophia Sage Mattson and Carter Evans Mattson.

James was employed by Eastman Kodak in Rochester, NY, for 32 years. His travels for work included two years starting and managing a manufacturing operation in Russia. He was an avid amateur nature photographer, a skier and an outdoorsman. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend. He will be sorely missed by family and friends.