Patsy Ruth McCoy

Born on July 8, 1939, in the heart of Camden, Arkansas, to proud parents Seymore and Lillie Mae Freeman, Patsy Ruth McCoy’s (Pat) life was a testament to resilience, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. Growing up surrounded by the joy and companionship of eleven sisters and five brothers, she learned the value of kinship and unity from an early age. These familial bonds would shape her into the extraordinary woman she became, radiating warmth and compassion to all who crossed her path.

In her youth, Pat embarked on a journey marked by hard work and determination. Starting as a humble housekeeper, she embraced every opportunity with grace and tenacity. Later, she ventured into entrepreneurship, a testament to her enterprising spirit and unwavering resolve. Patsy's dedication and ingenuity laid the foundation for a life filled with success and fulfillment. On December 11, 1959, Pat embarked on her greatest adventure yet, joining hands in marriage with the love of her life, Leonard B. McCoy. Together, they embarked on a journey defined by love, laughter, and the joy of raising a family.

Patsy Ruth McCoy, a beacon of love and strength, departed from this world on May 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will forever illuminate the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She was preceded in death by 5 brothers, 5 sisters, her daughter Tammie Nell McCoy in 2007, and her son Otis James McCoy in April of 2024.

Pat's love knew no bounds, extending beyond her immediate family to embrace husband, sisters, sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and family friends, who were the light of her life. She is survived by her husband, Leonard B. McCoy, who will continue to cherish her memory dearly. Additionally, she is survived by  her sisters, Alice Fall, Betty Parham (James), Mae Ellen Montgomery, Mary Virginia Fairley, Paulette Seal, and Bessie King. 

Her sons, Leonard C. McCoy and William S. McCoy Sr. (Nancy), along with her daughter-in-law, Crystal McCoy, and cherished grandchildren: Anika Spray (Bruce), Shalonda Johnson (Alvin), Cedric McCoy Sr. (Jami), Lashunda Weaver (Eric), William McCoy Jr. (Tyronda), Cameron Williams, Isaac McCoy, Jasmine Collins (Mariano), Kiera McCoy, Justin McCoy, Jonathan McCoy, Tyra McCoy, Oren McCoy, and Ashton McCoy, were the recipients of her boundless affection and wisdom, each one a testament to her enduring legacy. Her 17 great-grandchildren were the joy that filled her heart with endless delight. 

She held a special place in her heart for Sharon Biddle, who was like a daughter to her for many years, as well as her long-time friends Georgia Alexander and Charlene Byers. Additionally, she leaves behind a multitude of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory dearly.

Patsy Ruth McCoy will forever be remembered as a pillar of strength, a matriarch whose love knew no bounds, and a friend whose kindness touched countless souls. Though she may have departed from this earthly realm, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

As we bid farewell to Pat, let us take solace in the memories she leaves behind and honor her legacy by embracing the values she held dear: love, compassion, and the unwavering bond of family. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will forever guide us, a beacon of hope and love in the midst of life's journey.

Rest in eternal peace, dear Pat. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts, illuminating our path with love and grace until we meet again.

Public visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Koinonia of Grace Church, 329 N Adams Ave, Camden, Arkansas. A celebration of her life will be shared at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Shady Grove Baptist Church with Rev. James Scott, officiating and her son, Rev. William Stanley McCoy, eulogist. The interment will be at Shady Grove Cemetery.