Remembering the Life of Helen K. Copley

REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF HELEN K. COPLEY -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 08, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. DARRELL E. ISSA
OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2004

Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to remember the life of Helen Copley. Mrs. Copley passed away August 25, 2004. Mrs. Copley had an amazing commitment to journalism and a distinguished record of service throughout her community and the Nation.

In 1953, Helen Copley answered an ad for a secretary position at the Union-Tribune Publishing Company. She was hired as a secretary to the chief executive officer, James Copley. Twelve years later, Helen and James married. After her husband's death in 1973, many expected Helen to remain in the background, but she was determined to keep the business in family hands.

Mrs. Copley published The San Diego Union-Tribune, the third-largest newspaper in California, for nearly 30 years. The Copley Press also owns nine daily newspapers and other publications. During Mrs. Copley's tenure as publisher, her newspapers won two Pulitzer Prizes.

Helen Copley was also a model of personal involvement. She was a member of numerous local organizations, including the board of the Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation and was one of eight trustees appointed in 1984 to oversee the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Locally, Mrs. Copley was instrumental in securing a home for the San Diego Symphony and underwriting the library at the University of San Diego. She also helped launch the San Diego Council on Literacy in 1986.

Mr. Speaker, Helen Copley will be missed by the people of San Diego and her service to the community will not be forgotten. I also want to express my condolences to the Copley family and let them know that my thoughts and prayers are with them.