Sunrise – August 31, 1916 Sunset – October 26, 2018

Mother LaMerle Cornelia McCoy was born August 31, 1916 in Topeka, Kansas to O'Neal and Rebecca (Jackson) Bolin. She was raised in Topeka and accepted Christ at an early age.

On May 6th, 1939, She was joined in holy matrimony to Harry McCoy and moved to Lawrence, Kansas. Her husband preceded her in death shortly after celebrating their 50th Anniversary. They had one daughter, Suneetta McCoy, who also preceded her in death.

Mother McCoy received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity, She attended Kansas University, Kansas State Teachers College and was a graduate of Madam C.J. Walker Beauty School. She was active in the NAACP and Business and Professional Women.

She worked at KU in the Greek system, she was a licensed cosmetologist and a caregiver. She was a Visiting Nurses Association aid and was later promoted to supervisor.

Mother LaMerle McCoy was a member of Praise Temple Church of God in Christ in Lawrence, Kansas and during her many years of service, God used her in so many ways. She was an evangelist missionary, trustee, teacher, counselor, nurse and church mother.

Mother McCoy had a deep commitment to serving both God and others. She was very active in the community, serving as board member for the Achievement Place for Girls; Review Board for Emergency Service Counsel, Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging, Ballard Community Center and Hannah's House. She received many awards for her volunteer work including the coveted Wally Galluzzi Volunteer of the year award.

Mother McCoy was known for her witty sayings, creative teaching and words of wisdom. She was invited to speak on numerous occasions to encourage people and share her wisdom. And in 2009 she published a book called Quips, Quotes and Cliches.