Mr. Joe W. McCoy

Joe W. McCoy came into the world on August 27, 1935.  He was the first son of Annie Campbell Smith and James McCoy of Pulaski, Tennessee.  He had one younger brother, Ernest O. McCoy, who preceded him in death in 2015.  Joe was raised by his beloved step-father, Robert Smith and his favorite uncle Elease Campbell both of Indianapolis. 

Joe attended elementary school in Pulaski and later moved to Indianapolis enrolling in Crispus Attucks High School, graduating in 1955.  He enlisted in the Marine Corp, was an MP and was honorably discharged in 1959.  While stationed at Camp LeJeune in North Carolina, he married his high school sweetheart, Eleanor Lanier McCoy.  Joe and Eleanor were married in the Catholic Church where he was confirmed in faith by Father Munshower, attending Saint Thomas Aquinas Church.  Eleanor and Joe, remained married for 30 years and had one Daughter Monica McCoy -DeLaPaz. 

Joe’s other children include: Michael D. McCoy, Marcia D. McCoy – Haresh (Chris), Keith J. McCoy and Dishonda D. Jewell.  Joe has one granddaughter; Ava Vanessa McCoy-Haresh.  Michael use to fall asleep listening to dad’s police radio.  Dad walked Marcia down the aisle and danced at her wedding, Keith’s fondest memory of dad was teaching him to ride a bike, Dishonda remembers dad taking her to see Michael Jackson here in Indianapolis!  Joe also has a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, Sister-in-laws, and friends to cherish his memory. 

Joe, honorably served on active duty in the United States Marine Corp for (4) years and was a Military Police officer.  After his discharge he joined the Indianapolis Police Department (IPD) in 1961, and enjoyed an illustrious career.  Joe worked in narcotics and robbery and was later promoted to Detective Sergeant of Homicide and was appointed Special Deputy as Marion County Coroner, for the State of Indiana.  During these years he continued his education, graduating from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.  Joe was part of the security detail that protected the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King and Presidential Hopeful Robert F. Kennedy…. In.  After retiring from (IPD) in 1991, Joe worked for Indianapolis Power & Light Security, his second retirement was in 2004.

Joe, enjoyed restoring antiques cars, especially 1934 Fords.  He also purchased and traded many antique, new and used cars, in which his daughter Monica was a grateful recipient of!  Joe loved all of his family, served his community….. He loved jazz, Nat king Cole and “Don’t Stop the Music” by Yarbrough and Peoples.  He liked watching westerns, but his all-time favorite was “Shane.”  He made his police buddies laugh when they were dealing with difficult situations on the job.  He was a phenomenal detective, a supportive friend, a great teacher, and a wonderful father.  He will be missed!