Gerald L. ‘Jerry’ McCoy

Dr. Gerald L. “Jerry” McCoy, EdD, 87, of Eden Prairie, passed away peacefully on Oct. 30, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Louise M. McCoy (Budde), as well as his parents, Lawrence and Mildred Burns, and four brothers. He is survived by his four children, Susan (Matt) Strand, Peggy (Rich) Westlund, Mary Beth Greenwell, and Paul (Suzy) McCoy; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four sisters; and one brother.

Jerry was known for his charisma, smile, quick humor, and unwavering dedication to his family and his career in education. He leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate with the countless lives he touched.

He gave generously of his time, talent, and treasure by serving the community through volunteering with the Lions, Eden Prairie Foundation, Optimist Club, Rotary Club, Fairview Southdale Hospital Board of Directors, and the Minnesota Dental Board.

In 1980, he was named superintendent of Eden Prairie Schools. During his 16-year tenure as superintendent, he was named Minnesota Superintendent of the Year, Optimist of the Year, Lion of the Year, Melvin Jones Fellow, Paul Harris Fellow, Minnesota State University Distinguished Alumnus, and Bush Educational Fellow.

Following his retirement from education, he worked for Cunningham, consulting on school projects, and was recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus at the University of Minnesota. The family extends a special thank you to the staff at The Commons in Eagan and Grace Hospice, who cared for him with patience, dignity, and love and kept him comfortable through his courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Memorials are preferred to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Dec. 13, at 10:30 a.m., with visitation one hour prior at Pax Christi Catholic Church, 12100 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie. An evening visitation will be on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Washburn-McReavy Eden Prairie Chapel, 7625 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie.