Diane A McCoy

Diane Arlene McCoy, 86, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026 in Avon, Indiana. Born in Indianapolis, Diane grew up in the Slovenian Hauville neighborhood as the daughter of Boyan and Ann Smerdel. She graduated from St. Mary Academy in 1958, beginning a lifetime defined by creativity and an adventurous spirit.

Diane married the love of her life, Charles McCoy, with whom she shared 62 years of marriage until his passing on January 3, 2025. Together they raised their family in Plainfield, Indiana where they attended St. Susanna Catholic Church and she was a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.  After Charles’ retirement in 1987, they embraced the open road as avid RV travelers. Their journeys eventually led them to Port Orford, Oregon, where they lived until 2024, forming deep friendships and becoming part of the coastal community they cherished.

A prolific crafter, Diane expressed herself through painting, photography, greeting card design, stained glass and quilting. Her creativity was matched by her generosity: in Port Orford, she volunteered at the local public library and became a passionate supporter of feral cat rescue efforts, a cause close to her heart. She found joy in whale watching, star gazing, and exploring the natural world around her.

She is survived by her son, Ken (Lauri) McCoy; daughter, Beth (Philip) Caunt; and grandchildren Kate (McCoy) Femia, Michael Jackson, and Travis Jackson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, her parents, and her brother, Denis Smerdel.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Escapees the compassionate staff and volunteers of Escapees CARE in Livingston, Texas, and Cumberland Trace in Plainfield, Indiana. Special appreciation is offered to the dedicated care teams at Indiana University – West Hospital, including the Emergency, Intensive Care, Cardiology, and Hospice departments, for their exceptional kindness and support.