Born on November 22, 1960, in Rochester, New York, Mary McCoy began her journey in a modest household led by Eloise and Andrew Jackson. By the time her family moved to Miami, Florida, her path was already being paved by the values of resilience and ambition instilled in her by her parents. Although her siblings were years apart in age, leaving her to navigate much of her childhood alone, Mary thrived on the encouragement of family celebrations and her determination to stand out.

Miami became the backdrop of Mary’s formative years, where she discovered her talent for athletics. Her prowess on the volleyball and softball courts earned her the title of Most Valuable Athlete, opening the door to a future she could only dream of. She was offered a full athletic scholarship to Florida A&M University, where she would achieve not only academic success but also a lifelong love for empowering others.

In Tallahassee, Mary earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education while mastering the art of balance between academics and athletics. It was also during this time that she met Mancle Jerome McCoy, a star football player at Florida State. Their love story blossomed into a marriage that became the cornerstone of Mary’s life, as the couple settled in Daytona Beach, Florida, and raised three children.

Mary’s career as an educator began with a passion for exceptional students. As an ESE teacher at Mainland High School, she dedicated herself to the success of students with special needs, a role she fulfilled for decades until her retirement in January 2024. Alongside teaching, she coached varsity tennis, proving her leadership extended beyond the classroom and onto the courts.

Yet, Mary’s impact was far-reaching, as her volunteerism in the tennis community became a hallmark of her legacy. She spearheaded the transformation of the Derbyshire Tennis Facility into a hub for underserved youth, providing free lessons, equipment, and a sense of belonging. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including being named Volunteer of the Year by the United States Tennis Association (USTA).