Rita Hearn McCoy

Rita Hearn McCoy, born March 23, 1963, of Apex, North Carolina, passed away January 23, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family. Rita was the heart of her home, the steady presence everyone leaned on, and a woman whose love was, unconditional, and deeply felt.

Rita shared nearly 39 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Kirby McCoy. When she married Kirby at just 24 years old, Rita stepped into motherhood without hesitation, embracing twin daughters as her own and loving them fiercely from the very beginning. She never saw "step"-only family.

She was a devoted mother to Sherry Wilson (Stephen), Shelby Kline, and Kirby Lee McCoy II (Tracy), and a proud, doting grandmother to Brayden Wilson, Keegan Wilson, Sophie Kline, and Stella Kline, who lovingly called her "RiRi." Being a grandmother was one of Rita's greatest joys, and she poured her heart into each of her grandchildren, delighting in every moment spent together.

Rita found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved everything about the beach, especially the many family trips to Myrtle & Holden Beach, where she created memories filled with laughter and togetherness. Family time meant everything to her, most recently was last summer, when her entire family stayed at Holden Beach (just like she did growing up) on vacation. Rita also had a deep love for animals-there was never a time in her life when she didn't have a dog, and she cherished her two fur babies, Lucky and Chloe.

She loved music and even played the piano, and bet you didn't know that she loved Prince, and "A Simple Man" was her favorite song. At home, Rita found peace swimming in her pool, relaxing in her recliner watching her favorite older television shows, and simply being surrounded by the people she loved.

Rita was a faithful member of Hope Church Mill Creek, where her strong faith guided her life. She accepted Christ into her heart and lived her faith daily through kindness, compassion, and a servant's heart. She truly loved her church family and has always been appreciative of their support throughout her illness.

Professionally, Rita dedicated 31 years of service to Duke University, where she worked as a Grants Manager. She was known for her dedication, integrity, and strong work ethic, and she took great pride in her career and the relationships she built over the years.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Betty Jean Hearn.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Kirby McCoy; her mother-in-law and dear friend, Nan Jackson; her children and grandchildren; her siblings Ronnie Hearn (Deborah), Mark Hearn (Sheila), and Sherry Carter; and many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Honorary pallbearers will be Stephen Wilson, Keegan Wilson, Brayden Wilson, Jeff Wilkins, Ronnie Hearn, and Mark Hearn.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 27th, from 5:30 until 7:00 PM, and a Celebration of Life Service will take place on Wednesday, January 28th, at 11:00 AM. Both services will be held at Brooks & White Funeral Home, 907 Durham Road, Roxboro, NC.

Though deeply missed, Rita's legacy lives on in the family she loved so well, the faith she lived every day, and the countless memories that will forever be held close

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Church Mill Creek at

www.hopechurchmillcreek.com. Please include "Recovery Alive Program" in the memo line of your donation.

Condolences may be sent to www.brooksandwhite.com.