Ronnie McCoy

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Ronnie Keith McCoy Sr., of Joplin, Missouri passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 15, 2024, at his home following a lengthy illness.

Ronnie was born on September 12, 1954 in Los Angeles, California. He was the son of Delbert “Buck” McCoy and Wanda McCoy (Davis). He grew up in Joplin, Missouri. Ronnie had two brothers, Dale McCoy and Ricky McCoy.

Ronnie graduated from McAuley Catholic School in 1973. After graduation, Ronnie met the love of his life, Deborah Brown. Together they shared 49 years of love and devotion. With love comes great
sacrifice, and Debbie was able to care for Ronnie at home for the last three years while he was receiving hospice care.

Ronnie was always known as a hard worker. During his life, he sacrificed his body to provide for his
family. Ronnie worked at LaBarge Inc. from 1984-1993. After retirement, he and Debbie decided to
share their love of animals with the world. In 2002, they opened Reptile World Zoo. In 2009, they
expanded their dreams by establishing Safari Café. Ronnie and Debbie worked side-by-side, in good times and bad, sickness and health, until both businesses closed.

Ronnie was best known for the love he held for his family. During their marriage, Ronnie and Debbie
had two children, Shavonne Francis (McCoy) and Ron “Keith” McCoy. Ronnie taught his children the meaning of love and hard work. Today, both children are able to think outside of the box and fix
anything with duct tape, zippy ties, and a glue gun.

Ronnie also loved his son-in-law, Shawn Francis (Shavonne) and daughter-in-law, Stacy McCoy (Ron “Keith”). He considered them his children and knew he could count on them, just like he did his own. Ronnie knew he could pick up the phone day or night and someone would answer to bring him his remote control, tell him what time it was, put his dog (Wee-Wee) up on the bed, or bring him a pizza or burger.

Ronnie was an amazing husband and dad, but he truly excelled at being a one-of-a-kind papa. His
grandchildren, Madison, Riley, Evan, and Jesse loved him. They were his world and there was
nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Ronnie’s heart was broken when Riley left this world too soon. He
looked forward to seeing him again in Heaven.

During his illness, Ronnie found out he was going to have his first great grandchild. We believe this gave Ronnie the extra fight to keep going. He wanted to meet his precious “Nuggy,” A’Vonni Marie.
Ronnie loved watching, talking, and playing with her. A’Vonni made his last days peaceful and
created so many precious memories that will be treasured forever.

Ronnie knew his body was weary, therefore, he was prepared and ready for his place in Heaven. He was looking forward to reconnecting with the loved ones that proceeded him in death, Delbert “Buck” McCoy, Wanda McCoy, Dale McCoy, and Riley McCoy.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Joplin Humane Society. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO.