Vernelia Louise McCoy by Jerry Madison Harrison

Mother

How did I never see your wings when you were here with me? When you closed your eyes and soared toward heaven, I could hear the faint flutter of your wings as you left. Your body is no longer on this side; your spirit here is eternal.

I can see your halo shine when I close my eyes and see the many multi-colored wings surrounding me in my saddest moments and my happiest memories. Mother, my angel, God has given you your assignment as being my “Mother,” forever my sweet angel. You fly into my dreams when I’m asleep, and I feel the brushing of your wings against my face, wiping away my tears. I can no longer hold you in my arms, but only in my heart. Mother, you earn those wings and continue to be my eternal angel...

I love you forever

Bridgett McCoy

Mama

How can we tell you how much your love means?

How grateful that I am for the time spent.

How can I thank you for all you’ve done?

For teaching me skills to fight battles won. For applauding my efforts, for being my guide.

For teaching me how to take failures in stride. Though words are inadequate, I hope you know that your love and caring influenced me.

In all the world, nothing is more precious than a Mother’s Love. You were the beginning of all goodness—the source of all comfort, the assurance of all love. You were my Mama and friend, so I give you the highest honor, the deepest thanks, and the warmest praise.

I love you, Mama; I will miss you forever.

Love Your Daughter, Sherry

LTributes oving

Mother

I’m so grateful for the way I was raised. You were never afraid to be my mother. To put your foot down, to teach me right from wrong, to make sure I did my best. And you always let me know I had a mama who cared about me. Who believed in me, who was there for me no matter what. Growing up with that kind of love and support made such a difference in my life. It made who I am today. Thanks mama, for everything. See you in the afterlife. Ashé

Aundra “Pumpkin” McCoy

Grandmother Louise

We had a wonderful grandmother - great grandmother One who never grew old smiled like sunshine; her heart was solid gold. We had a grandmother, and that is how it will always be. But take heed because she is still watching all of us. Let us make sure she likes what she sees.

We love and miss you.

From your Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren Andrew, Michael, Ameexa, Jessica and Ethan.

herished

CMemories

Grand Ma

“Every Adam needs a Eve, Every Romeo needs a Juliet Every Peach needs a Louise Left needs Right, ups and down

Road trips are always better with a partner May your road always lead the two of you home”

Love Always, Andrew P. McCoy

Grandmother

Grandma’s don’t judge you. They accept you for who you are. My grandmother was more than a grandmother was more than a grandparent. She was my mom, nurse, biggest supporter, friend, and more than anything I wanted to do. She ensured I did it by performing in plays, ballet, piano lessons, etc. The love she showed to others and me was unconditional, and I admit I wasn’t always a sweetheart. She showed me how to be a woman and to continuously work hard for what I wanted, and she held me accountable, but she never gave up or stopped loving me. She wasn’t perfect, but she was an ideal mother figure. See you in the afterlife.

Love always, your one and only granddaughter, Brittany McCoy

Life’s Reflections

Vernelia Louise Howard-McCoy was born October 4, 1931, in Whitehaven, Tennessee, to the late “Brock” Howard and Lucinda Parker-Murray.

From a young age, Vernelia embraced her faith, becoming a member of Upper Room Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., guided by the late Rev. Willie B. Allan. Upon her return to Memphis, she continued her spiritual journey at Greater Middle Baptist Church, led by the late Dr. Benjamin Hooks. Vernelia’s dedication was evident in her role as a church hostess and her active participation, which continued until her illness.

Vernelia’s professional life was marked by her tenure at Holy Cross Hospital (1968-1990), Silver Spring, Maryland. In 1994, she expanded her horizons, joining the Prince George’s County Association of Realtors, Inc., and supporting the NAACP. Beyond her professional commitments, Vernelia was a dedicated homemaker, finding joy in sewing, gardening, and spending time with loved ones. Her warm spirit, infectious smile, and generous nature touched the lives of many. She was united in Holy Matrimony to Andrew L. McCoy, Jr. God blessed them with three beautiful daughters.

On April 13, 2024, God called her home to sleep with her elders in the place He had prepared for her. Vernelia graduated from Melrose High School Class of 1951 as a band member and Golden Wildcat Majorette.

As the heart and matriarch of the McCoy family, Vernelia’s legacy lives on through her three daughters, Aundra V. McCoy, Sherry L. McCoy-Evans, and Bridgette S. McCoy. Her love extended to her three grandchildren, Andrew Patrick McCoy, III, Brittany S. McCoy, and Glandus M. McCoy, and her three great-grandchildren, Amenna L. McCoy, Jessica M. McCoy, and Ethan A. McCoy. Her role as a mother and grandmother was a testament to her nurturing and caring nature.

Vernelia will always be remembered for her kindness, wisdom, love of family, and social and professional achievements. Many lives were enriched as she mentored numerous individuals in Memphis and Washington, D.C. communities and was a sister figure to countless individuals near and far.

Vernelia leaves a legacy that will live in the hearts of her surviving nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless other friends and family. We are grateful to God for having Vernelia L. McCoy.

Order of Celebration

Monday, April 29, 2024 12:00 Noon

Mt. Gilliam Missionary Baptist Church 1029 Raymond Street Memphis, Tennessee 38114

Pastor David Fitzgerald, Pastor

Musical Prelude

Processional......................................................................................The Family of Vernelia Louise McCoy

Scripture Readings:

The Old & New Testament.................................................................................Elder James Walker

Prayer....................................................................................................................................Bonnie Murray

Celebration in Song.....................................................................Mt. Gillism M.B. Church Music Ministry

Reflections............................................................................................................................Aundra McCoy

Musical Selection

Family Reflections

(Respectfully, Three Minutes Please)

Gloria Malbrough

Sherry L. McCoy-Evans

Milton Murray

Resolution & Acknowledgements..........................................................................................Bonnie Murray

Obituary Read Silently..................................................................................................................Soft Music

Musical Selection

Eulogy....................................................................................................................Pastor David Fitzgerald

Mt. Gilliam M.B. Church

Recessional

Remains will not be viewed after eulogy.

anointest

~ Acknowledgements ~ God made this world. He holds it in His hands; He has the key to countless things we’ll never understand. But one thing is sure: He is very wise and knows his children will need friends, so he sent you to us. The family sincerely appreciates each of you for your many acts of kindness during this time of bereavement. May God bless and keep you in his care.