Reba Inez McCoy

Reba Inez McCoy (86), a cherished resident of Tensed, Idaho, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, with her loving husband by her side.

Reba was born on April 6, 1939, in South Carolina to Sanford and Mary Webb. She grew up there and graduated at the top of her class in 1957, a reflection of the determination and quiet strength that would guide her throughout her life.

Life eventually carried Reba far from her southern roots, taking her to Seattle, Washington, Potlatch, Idaho, and Palouse, Washington. During those years she married Butch Arnold shortly after the two met. Together they built a life that included hard work, faith, and the simple joys of country living.

Reba worked a variety of jobs over the years. One of her most memorable positions was at Montgomery Ward in Palouse, but the job she cherished most was working as a custodian at Washington State University. She took great pride in her work, and the people she worked with admired her deeply. Outside of her job, she helped Butch tend to their small farm, embracing the rhythm of rural life. After twenty years of marriage, Butch passed away, leaving a space in her heart that would eventually be filled by a new chapter in life.

That next chapter began when she caught the eye of John McCoy. John had a list of qualities he was looking for in a woman, and although Reba may not have checked every box at first, the two quickly formed a close friendship that soon blossomed into love. In 1996, just one month after deciding they were meant to share their lives together, they were married. The couple made their home on Old Sanders Road, where they built a life filled with companionship, faith, and laughter.

Reba was a woman who found joy in life's simplest blessings. She had a true servant's heart and lived her faith openly. She often visited local nursing homes, sharing the Gospel with residents and lifting spirits with her singing. Those moments meant as much to her as they did to the people she visited.

She and John loved taking drives through the woods and going on road trips together, creating many treasured memories along the way. At home, Reba enjoyed tending to her garden, caring for her chickens, and working in her flower beds. She delighted in sharing the bounty from her garden with friends, neighbors, and anyone in need. Reba was also known as a wonderful cook, and many were blessed to gather around her table.

Reba is survived by her devoted husband, John McCoy, at their home on Old Sanders Road, and her cousin Janice, along with many friends and neighbors whose lives were touched by her kindness and faith.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Reba's life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Tensed Community Church.