Jimmy Franklin McCoy

Jimmy Franklin McCoy, 81, of Kinston, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026.  He was known by many as Mr. Jim or Jimmy but to his family that he cherished the most he was very simply “Papa”. 

He was introduced to farming from birth, being the son of a farmer, you could tell it was in his blood.  He worked on the land with steady hands and a quiet pride, he truly believed in an honest day's work. Jimmy was certainly destined to farm and he jumped in without hesitation. His days were filled with planting, tending, and harvesting many different crops on his family’s farm.  He would often worry about “too much rain”, or “not enough rain”, but he always seemed to manage through each growing season. 

He married the daughter of a farmer, and so the life Jimmy and Linda made together was very simple, and easy to appreciate.  Jimmy and Linda raised two daughters and taught them the same set of values along the way.  As they grew older, he never missed an opportunity to be at the games for both Lori and Angie whether it was volleyball, basketball or softball.  His girls were involved in all kinds of sports and he was there, cheering them on in the stands, as a very proud parent.   

Even though farming seemed to be 7 days a week, there was room for time away.  Passions that most interested Jimmy included trips to NASCAR races, attending the Daytona 500 more than a few times, and boating and fishing with his family at Blount’s Creek where they had a “getaway”. There were many days filled with family time on the water, and he enjoyed both boating and fishing with them.  He also enjoyed fishing on the James River in Virginia and was especially proud of the coolers full of croakers they would haul back home for a fish fry. In his alone time he would often lay back in the recliner to watch a western or with a history book, which fascinated him.  Whether he cooked on his homemade pig cooker, or spent time on the water, his time with family was most precious to him. When his grandchildren came along, he picked up where he left off cheering them on, whether that be on the sidelines or in a theater.  He took great pride in teaching them how to hunt and fish, especially in the pond on the farm. He always brought along a pepsi and something sweet, coming home as late as Nana would allow in order to get that last catch. 

Jimmy was known for his strong worth ethic, generosity and his deep love of family.  Neighbors and friends will remember Jimmy as someone who always had solutions to problems and was quick to offer his help if needed. 

He is survived by his wife, Linda D. McCoy of the home, daughters Lori McCoy Sullivan, (Steve), of Morehead City, Angie McCoy Bouzigard, (Jon), of Knightdale,  very special Nephew James Clayton Davenport, “Clay”,  grandchildren McCenzie Lane Windley, (Anthony), Olivia McCoy Bouzigard, James McCoy Bouzigard, Anna Keith Sullivan; and great-grandchildren, Alden Kade Windley, Baylen Anthony Windley, & Tatum Lane Windley.