Mark Ellison McCoy

October 1, 1968 – November 7, 2026

Mark Ellison McCoy, 58, of Galion, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Born on October 1, 1968, in Richmond, Virginia, to Oscar and Joyce McCoy, Mark grew up as a ministry kid, moving throughout Virginia and developing a lifelong love for sports. A gifted athlete, Mark excelled in baseball, basketball, and football. Though recruited by numerous colleges to play quarterback, he ultimately followed his first love, baseball, choosing to pitch at Ohio Valley College. It was there that he met the love of his life, Mary, with whom he would spend 37 years of marriage building a family and a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering support.

To many, Mark was simply known as "Coach." Though he held various jobs throughout his life, his heart was always on the field. Even as health challenges and disability changed what he was physically able to do, they never diminished his passion for the game or the people playing it. Whether coaching football, umpiring baseball, or cheering from the sidelines, Mark found great joy in being part of the action.

But if you asked Mark about his greatest accomplishment, he wouldn't have pointed to a scoreboard, a career, or an award. He would have pointed to his family.

Mark was everyone's biggest fan.

He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel like whatever was happening in their lives was the most important thing in the world. Whether it was a big game, a wrestling match, a new adventure, or even jury duty, Mark wanted to know about it. He celebrated the victories, commiserated over the disappointments, and somehow always helped people find a silver lining. He didn't just want to know what was happening in your life; he wanted to experience it through your eyes.

Mark was fiercely loyal, wonderfully stubborn, hilariously unfiltered, and unapologetically himself. You never had to wonder what he was thinking, and you never had to question whether he loved you. He welcomed people with open arms, treated lifelong friends and new acquaintances with the same genuine interest, and could make just about anyone feel like family. Of course, being a Michigan fan might have tested the limits of that hospitality.

Together, Mark and Mary built a life centered on faith, family, and showing up for the people they loved. Whether attending games, gathering at church, or cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns, they were happiest surrounded by their people. Known affectionately as "Mimi and Pap" to far more than just their own grandchildren, their arms and hearts were always open.

Nothing brought Mark more joy than being "Pap" or "Pappy." He adored his grandchildren and would have gladly spent every waking moment with them. He loved holding them, hearing about their adventures, celebrating their accomplishments, and telling anyone who would listen just how proud he was of each of them. Every grandchild had a special place in his heart, and he made sure they knew it.

Mark's faith in Jesus Christ was central to his life. It wasn't a faith of pretense or polished answers, but one marked by honesty, earnestness, and a willingness to wrestle with God through life's difficulties. Through seasons of hardship and physical challenges, Mark continued to fight, love deeply, and hold fast to the hope he found in his Savior. He longed for those he loved to know Jesus and shared in the hope of one day being reunited in His presence.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Mary; his mother, Joyce McCoy; his children, Lindsay (Kevin) Marmet, Cole (Stephanie) McCoy, Chase (Kenzi) McCoy, and Deaken McCoy; and his cherished grandchildren, Otto, Princeton, Kennedy, Larkin, Ari, Ellie, Maggie, Maggie, Freya, Beau, and Georgie. He is also survived by his siblings, Joy, Trina, Sheila, Sandy, and Chris, along with numerous nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved. In addition, he is survived by two sisters-in-law: Kelly Matthews and Kelly Lesseur. Mark also leaves behind his dear friend, Adam Rietschlin, and Adam's wife, Kristen, whose friendship held a special place in his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Oscar McCoy; his father-in-law, Darryl Bachtel; and his brothers-in-law, Kyle Bachtel and Roy Reppart.

Mark's life was not defined by the challenges he faced, but by the love he gave so freely through them. He was a fighter, a coach, a husband, a dad, a Pap, and a friend. He showed up. He checked in. He cheered loudly. He loved fiercely.

And while the sidelines will feel a little quieter without him, the countless lives he encouraged will continue to carry his voice with them.

Mark spent his life being everyone's biggest fan. His greatest hope was that one day, they would all be together again in the presence of Jesus.

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of Mark's life on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Praise Generation Church, located at 6480 Lower Leesville Road, Crestline, Ohio 44827.

Calling hours will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Please note that all attendees are encoraged to wear The OSU Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns or Cleveland Indians clothing in honor of Mark.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Mark's family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net or the Miller Funeral Homes Facebook Page.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Miller Bros. Funeral Directors in St. Marys, Celina, New Knoxville, and Mendon, OH.