William V. Cope

William V. Cope Sr., December 13, 1937 – June 23, 2026

William V. "Woody" Cope, Sr., 88, of Weymouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of service, integrity, and devotion to his family and community.

A lifelong resident of Weymouth, Woody was born on December 13, 1937, and raised in the town he proudly called home. When he became of age,  he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Following his first deployment, he was called back to serve a second period of military service, demonstrating the dedication and sense of duty that would define his life.

Upon returning home, Woody joined the Weymouth Police Department in 1964, beginning what would become an accomplished career serving the community he loved. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1976 and to Lieutenant in 1981 before retiring in 1997 after more than three decades of distinguished service. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of both his fellow officers and the residents of Weymouth through his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Never one to stop learning, Woody attended both Stonehill College and Anna Maria College, where he earned his master's degree in Criminal Justice. His education reflected his lifelong pursuit of personal growth and professional excellence.

As many in law enforcement do, Woody had a part time job as well, serving as the Superintendent at the North Weymouth Cemetery Association ("Old North Cemetery"). 

Away from work, Woody was a man of many talents and passions. He enjoyed playing the piano and guitar, and he was especially proud to have performed on the Reveleers' 45 RPM recording of Mr. Bee. He had a lifelong love of motorcycles and possessed an unmatched eye for discovering hidden treasures while exploring yard sales. Some of his happiest hours were spent in his cellar, where he could tinker with his latest projects, repair cherished finds, and simply enjoy working with his hands. It was there that he found peace, purpose, and the simple joy of creating something with care.

Woody was predeceased by his beloved wife, Diane M. Cope (Brayshaw), and his cherished grandson, Justin.

He is survived by his loving children, William V. Cope Jr. and his wife, Nancy, of New Hampshire; Wendy Cope of Whitman; and Danielle Cope-Sullivan and her husband, Sean D. Sullivan, of Weymouth. He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren, Cassandra, Derryk, Timothy, Taylor, and Katrina, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Woody will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, respected police officer, gifted musician, and loyal friend. His quiet strength, sharp mind, remarkable talents, and steadfast dedication to both his family and his community created a legacy that will endure for generations. Whether wearing a police uniform, sitting behind a piano, riding a motorcycle, searching for his next great yard sale find, or happily tinkering in his cellar, Woody lived a life filled with purpose, curiosity, and kindness. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Tuesday, June 30, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at C.C. Shepherd Funeral Home, 134 Pleasant Street, Weymouth, Massachusetts 02189. A funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home at 11:00 a.m. Burial with military honors will take place at approximately 12:30 p.m. at Old North Cemetery in Weymouth.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Woody's memory may be made to the North Weymouth Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 146, Weymouth, Massachusetts 02191.