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On June 5, 2025, Gary Lee McCoy Sr. was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A faithful servant in both his professional and personal life, Gary passed peacefully at his home in East Liverpool, Ohio -- the town where he was born, raised, and spent most of his life as a steadfast presence in the community.
Gary's life was defined by service: to his God, his family, and his community. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a trusted leader who lived with humility, generosity, and integrity. His unwavering faith guided every chapter of his life, and those who knew him were inspired by his example of quiet strength and steadfast love.
Professionally, Gary built a legacy of hard work and craftsmanship. A skilled union carpenter, he dedicated his career to excellence in construction, eventually founding and operating McCoy Construction. Beyond his trade, he loved working the land and tending to his family farm. Gary's heart for helping others found expression in his many community roles. He poured into the lives of young people as a coach for the Glenmoor Rams in the Bill Booth Football League and as a basketball coach at Glenmoor Church. He found joy and fellowship in rounds of golf with the "Old Timers," and cherished his time bowling and fishing.
Gary's most distinguished service came as a member of the Calcutta Volunteer Fire Department, where he faithfully served since 1971. Rising to the role of Fire Chief in 1978, he led the department with honor and humility for 13 years. Under his leadership, the department thrived, and his calm presence in times of crisis became a source of strength for the entire community. His commitment to protecting others was more than duty -- it was a calling.
Above all, Gary's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband of nearly 67 years to Nancy McCoy, and a guiding light to his children: Gary L. McCoy Jr. (Candace), David J. McCoy (Lorie), Kimberly J. Smalley (Scott), Kelley L. McCoy, and Kandi M. Spangler (Shannon). He was a beloved grandfather to Shane, Brandon, Shelbie, Justin, Drew, and Austin, and a step-grandfather to Katina. His love extended further as a great-grandfather to many, and his example of strength, faith, and kindness will echo for generations.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Annabelle (Crytzer) McCoy; brothers Harry, Raymond, Robert, Gene, Roger, and Paul McCoy; and sisters Donna Heebner, Glenda Bock, Peg Cross, Janet Smiley, Betty Dillman, and Kathy Melton. He is survived by his brothers Dick, John, and Joe McCoy; sisters Sue Conley and Michelle Bullock; and a host of extended family and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
A celebration of Gary's life will be held at the Care Funeral and Cremation Specialists in Calcutta Ohio. Visitation will take place on Monday, June 9 from 4 to 7 p.m., and also on Tuesday, June 10 at 10 to 11 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m.. A motorcade, led by the Calcutta Fire Department and other area departments, will escort him through town to his final resting place at Columbiana County Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to the Calcutta Fire Department K-9 Search and Rescue, 15445 Pugh Road, East Liverpool OH 43920.
Gary Lee McCoy Sr. lived a life of faithful service, enduring love, and quiet strength. He lived his life as a faithful servant to the Lord and now rests in the eternal peace of his Heavenly Father and his spirit lives on in every life he touched.
6/6/25