Jennie McCoy

Jennie McCoy, a treasured beacon of love and wisdom, has completed her earthly journey and entered into eternal peace on March 5, 2025, in Columbus, Indiana. She embraced life with a faith-filled heart and an unwavering spirit of compassion. Jennie was born into the loving family of W.H. and Lydia Beard in Ballinger, Texas. She was the embodiment of the values her parents instilled in her, and she carried these throughout her full, vibrant life. With the passing of her parents and her brother, Bill Beard, Jennie remained a constant source of strength and comfort to her surviving family members. United in love with her devoted husband, L.D. on March 23, 1975, Jennie's marriage was a testament to commitment and partnership. She was the proud mother of her daughter Sarah (Brent) Bodem; an adoring grandmother to Lydia and Eliza Bodem; a cherished sister to Carol McQuirk and Patti Baker; and a supportive sister-in-law to Sally Beard. Her legacy of love extends to her eight nieces and nephews, who will remember her fondly for the warmth and guidance she freely provided. Jennie's academic achievements reached their pinnacle when she earned her Master's degree in teaching from Ball State University. Upon completing her education, she dedicated her professional life to the students at South Elementary School in Pendleton, Indiana. Jennie began her career in the very same classroom where she would retire, 36 years later, having touched the lives of countless first-graders with her gentle guidance and inspiring lessons. Her commitment to her community was evidenced by her active participation in religious life, having been a longtime member of South Meridian Church of God in Anderson, Indiana, and later joining the congregation of the First Christian Church in Columbus. Across both church communities, Jennie's presence was felt deeply, reinforcing her status as a model of devout Christian living. Throughout her life, Jennie was the epitome of a loving and wise soul. Her gentle guidance, patient teaching, and nurturing love made an indelible impact on all who had the privilege to know her. Friends, family, and former students alike revered her ability to enlighten and enrich the world around her, leaving behind cherished memories of her laughter, stories, and unwavering support. As she wove her vibrant tapestry of life, Jennie pursued her interests with diligence and wholehearted passion. Her love of learning, commitment to her faith, and the joy she found in her family's success were the threads that colored her world with happiness and purpose. Jennie McCoy's life story is one of profound influence and boundless affection. Her departure is felt as a great loss, yet it is met with an outpouring of gratitude by those who were blessed to know her. As her family and friends reflect on her extraordinary life, they do so with fondness, comforted by the knowledge that her legacy will endure in the lives she has shaped and in the love she has imparted. Gone from us is a spirited soul who brought light to every corner of her world. Jennie’s story—marked by her unshakable faith, nurturing love, and enduring wisdom—lives on, a beacon that will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. in Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home 3855 25th Street Columbus, Indiana with Pastor Dale Landis officiating. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in Grovelawn Cemetery in Pendleton with graveside services at 1:15 p.m. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home. Jennie loved flowers, however, she would want memorial contributions to Turning Point 729 Washington Street Columbus, Indiana 47201. I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 2 Timothy: 7-8