Karen McCoy

Hastings, Nebraska resident Karen Maxine McCoy, 82, peacefully went to be with Jesus at her home on Thursday, March 12, 2026. At her request, a private family graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the family for Mercy Ships Mission and Smile of a Child.

Karen was a devoted wife whose marriage was truly a love story. She and her husband, Richard McCoy, began dating on and off in middle school before eventually marrying her sweetheart on September 28, 1963. Throughout their many years together, Karen cared for Richard with remarkable attentiveness, thoughtfulness, and devotion.

She was a nurturing mother to her four children and faithfully supported them through their many activities, projects, and family needs. For much of her life she prepared Sunday dinners for her family, often making extra food to ensure there was enough for a few extras. She made birthdays and holidays special through her creativity and her wonderful cooking. Most importantly, she prayed diligently for her children and grandchildren—an immeasurable gift that continues to shape their lives.

Karen’s greatest love was for Jesus Christ. She took every opportunity to boldly share the truth about Him and the hope He offers. She intentionally noticed people and looked for ways to help and bless others without seeking recognition or credit. Her heart was always to encourage people and build them up.

She was an extremely faithful church attender who deeply valued gathering with other believers. Karen attended church not out of religious duty, but out of genuine love for God and people. She had a special passion for welcoming others—searching for people to greet warmly and making sure they felt noticed, cared for, and valued as friends. Many people experienced the love of Christ through her kindness.

Karen hungered for the things of God and loved sharing Scripture with others. For more than 40 years, she faithfully taught children at church and became known for her fun and creative style of teaching. Her welcoming heart helped shape the spiritual journeys of many people, including some who would later go on to serve in ministry themselves.

Outside of church and family life, Karen enjoyed watching baseball—especially the Los Angeles Dodgers. She loved creating joy and laughter for others, and many will fondly remember her famous and ornery “salt cookies” prank. She was an avid reader of biographies and Christian fiction, but most of all she loved reading the Bible. Studying the Word of God brought her great joy. She also enjoyed cooking, trying new recipes, and sharing meals with family and friends.

Karen is survived by her husband, Richard McCoy; her children Tiffany (William) Norcross of Hastings; Regina (Michael) Orr of Topeka, Kansas; Paige (Brett) Mackey of Hastings; and Brandon McCoy of Hastings.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Alexis (Ryan) Fellows, Alivia (Ty) LeBar, Autumn Norcross, Megan (Thad) Lockard, Madison (Nancy) Orr, Makenzie Orr, Maclain Orr,

Maxwell (Mae) Orr, Maverick (Sarah) Orr, Brayden Mackey, Brohdy Mackey, Aaliyah Hardin (Colton), and Rio McCoy, along with 14 great-grandchildren.

Karen’s life was defined by her love for Jesus, her devotion to her family, and her quiet commitment to serving others. Her legacy of faith, hospitality, and kindness will continue through the generations who were shaped by her prayers and her example. Karen spent her life welcoming people with open arms, and now she is welcomed home by the Savior she loved so deeply