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Charles Keith McCoy, known affectionately as "Charlie," passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at the age of 87 in Livingston, Texas. Born on December 2, 1937, in Lafayette, Indiana, Charlie was the son of Meredith (Wilson) McCoy and Theresa McCoy (Calloway).
Charlie graduated from Rossville (Indiana) High School and proudly served his country in the Air Force as a Control Tower Specialist from 1955 to 1961. Following his military service he settled in Plainfield, Indiana where he dedicated his career to the Federal Aviation Administration as an Air Traffic Controller at the Indianapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center until his retirement in 1985.
In retirement, Charlie and his wife of 62 years, Diane Arlene McCoy (Smerdel), embraced a life of adventure, traveling the United States in various RVs. They eventually settled in Port Orford, Oregon, before relocating to the Escapees CARE RV Park in Livingston in 2023.
Charlie enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and riding motorcycles. Known for his deliciously grilled chicken "arms" and his ability to fix anything that needed tinkering. His New Year's Eve and July 4th tradition of firing his model cannon with authentic gunpowder was a highlight for many who knew him. Charlie never met a stranger and was a role model for being calm under pressure.
Charlie is survived by his wife, Diane Arlene McCoy; son Ken McCoy; daughter Beth Caunt; and grandchildren, Kate Femia, Michael Jackson, and Travis Jackson. He is also survived by a brother, Lynn McCoy.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the Cochran Funeral Home, Escapees CARE and Pine Ridge Health Care staff and volunteers for their compassionate care and support.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Charles Keith McCoy, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
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