Gary Lee McCoy Sr.

Born on August 19, 1943, in Highland Park, Illinois, Gary was the son of Martha and Jack McCoy. He spent his early years in the Midwest and was later raised by his mother and stepfather, Clarence Keller.

Gary lived a life rich with adventure, stories, and experiences. Throughout the years, he worked in a variety of professions that reflected his hardworking nature and independent spirit. He helped pave portions of what is now Interstate 70 while working for Vance Brothers, drove motorcoach passengers to Colorado ski destinations for Jefferson Lines, spent many years as an over-the-road truck driver traveling the country, and later worked as a diesel truck salesman. Wherever life took him, Gary never hesitated to meet new people and embrace the journey ahead.

A man with remarkable determination, Gary survived numerous hardships and health challenges that would have stopped many others. Over the course of his life, he endured serious trucking and motorcycle accidents, a brain bleed, heart attacks, strokes, and countless other medical setbacks yet he continued moving forward with an optimism and grit that defined him. More than 20 years after being told he was living on borrowed time following a massive heart attack, Gary was still making the most of each day. His resilience was nothing short of extraordinary.

Gary had a gift for conversation and never met a stranger. His infectious personality drew people to him, and he formed friendships wherever he went. He loved music and in his early years, enjoyed playing his guitar alongside his friend Tony Rodriguez, who played banjo. Together they attended bluegrass gatherings and shared a love of music. His family fondly remembers hearing him play "Mr. Bojangles."

He was equally passionate about motorcycles and the open road. Riding his Harley brought him great joy, whether traveling to Sturgis, exploring the Black Hills, or simply taking in the scenery. He cherished the landscapes of Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, and the American West, where he felt most at home.

Gary was also an animal lover. While he cared deeply for many pets throughout his life, his beloved dog Scooter held a particularly special place in his heart. Losing Scooter was one of life's hardest moments for him, and her memory stayed with him always.

Gary also loved to watch sports, his favorite teams were The Royals, Chiefs, K-State and Mizzou. It was a great conversation topic with his sons and grandsons and anyone that wanted to talk sports.

More than anything, Gary valued his independence. He often said he was not afraid to die—he simply did not want to. His greatest wish was to remain free and self-sufficient, and his family finds comfort knowing he was able to live independently until the very end.

Gary is survived by his wife, Vicki McCoy; his children, Randy McCoy (Jana), Rhonda Rivera, Jeff McCoy (Robin), Tracy Riley (Jeff), and Gary McCoy Jr.; his stepchildren, Mary Doakes and Andy Willich (Jeanene); 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Gary spent his life chasing horizons—down highways, across mountain passes, and through every chapter life placed before him. Though his journey has come to an end, the stories he left behind will continue to travel with all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be 2-3 PM, Tuesday, July 28, followed by a Memorial Service at 3 PM at Newcomer’s White Chapel Funeral Home in Gladstone, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Missouri German Shepherd Rescue or KC Pet Project, causes that reflect Gary's lifelong love for animals.