Carl McCoy

© Durant Daily Democrat

November 30, 2008

Submitted by: Jo Aguirre

Carl McCoy was born Dec. 24, 1923, to Dave and Ruth McCoy of Albion, Okla. After graduating from Albion High School, his parents gave him $16 as he left home to begin his studies at Southeastern Oklahoma State College, (now Southeastern Oklahoma State University). On Dec. 20, 1943, he joined the U. S. Navy and served in the Pacific. After the end of WWII the Navy thought he should study engineering at Stanford, but because of paperwork delays, he ended up at the University of Mississippi.

He then came back to Southeastern, finished his degree and then taught business classes and coached boys' basketball at Whitesboro in rural Leflore County, in 1947. The next year he moved to Clayton, Okla. to coach basketball.

Although he wasn't able to get the basketball team on the winning track, he did see a gorgeous long-haired blond driving a red Dodge and managed to meet her. Lucretia Mathies became his wife on Valentine's Day in 1948.

Dr. McCoy earned his Master's Degree from Oklahoma State University and his Ed. D. from the University of Oklahoma. He began his career at Southeastern in May of 1950 at the age of 26 and retired Dec. 31, 1987. Although his title at retirement from Southeastern was Professor of Accounting, he had served as Chief Financial Officer, Director of Institutional Research, and Chair of the Division of Business. For a number of years he served as Faculty Athletic Representative which was a position that he enjoyed greatly. After retirement he spent several years performing estate planning and investment counseling for a variety of clients.

He passed from this life Monday, Nov. 24, 2008, at his residence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Ruth of Lincoln, Nebraska and his brother Harold of Houston, Texas.

He and his wife Lucretia maintained an exceptionally close and loving relationship for over 60 years. Lucretia passed away in September of 2007.

He is survived by sons John Wharton McCoy, Memphis, Tenn.; Joe David McCoy and wife Michele of Oklahoma City; sister-in-law Ann Mathies Maxwell of Edmond; nephew Mike Maxwell and wife Carol of McKinney, Texas.

He was a very kind and special man who was loved by many and will be greatly missed. The family wants to say a special thanks to Rhonda Grider, faithful caregiver for both Carl and Lucretia.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to First Christian Church, Durant, or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Christian Church of Durant, Rev. Jon Goeringer and Rev. Kyle Maxwell will officiate.

Arrangements are being handled by Coffey Murray Funeral Home.

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