Henry McCoy, 88, departed life on Wednesday, December 15, 2021.  He was born on February 15, 1933, the fifth child of Wren and Gertie Mae McCoy.  Henry was a native of Norfolk County in Churchland which later became Portsmouth, VA.  

He attended Norfolk County High School and later decided to join the United States Air Force in April 1953.  On April 27, 1958, he married his bride, Edna Copeland. They were married for 63 years and of their union, two children were born, Andre and Gelinde McCoy.  Throughout his life, he lived abroad including duty stations in Germany and Spain.   He retired from the military after 20 years of service.  After returning home to Portsmouth, VA, he worked as a butcher for Earles Market for 10 years and Food Lion for 10 years.  After retiring from Food Lion, he enjoyed many hobbies which included hunting, fishing, and raising birds.  However, his greatest love was gardening.  His pride and joy was his yard and it was the best groomed yard on his street.  Most times if you rode by his house, you’d find him in his yard.  If you honked, he’d wave hello.

Henry was predeceased by his parents.  His siblings, Gracie Franklin, Harvey McCoy, and Herbert McCoy.  He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 63 years, Edna.  His children, Andre McCoy (Wanda) of Murfreesboro, NC; his daughter, Gelinde McCoy of Chesapeake, VA; four grandchildren, Shyrone Stith, Andrea Barco (Clevon), Portia McCoy, and Gabrielle McCoy.  Along with his three great grandchildren, Khaleel Banks, Jaylyn McCoy, and Naelyn Stith.  And his sister, Christine Eggleston and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Henry will be loved and missed by all who had the opportunity to know and love him.