Obituaries

Sharon “Sherry” Ann McCoy, Niibaa-biidaasigekwe, age 70, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the night before her 71st birthday. Sherry was born on October 22, 1954, in Sault Ste. Marie to the late Kenneth and Helen (Gurnoe) McCoy.

Sherry was a strong spirited Anishinaabekwe. She was gifted with second sight and misunderstood by mainstream society. She was tough in the classical nature of being a McCoy and quick witted with delightful humor. Sherry was a beloved sister to nine siblings.

Sherry was a proud member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians in Bawating who belonged to Ziinzibaakwadoominising, Sugar Island.

The light of Sharon’s life was her dear son Kenneth Joseph McCoy. Sharon and Kenny shared a bond transcending lifetimes and grounded in the unconditional love characteristic of the true fruit of the spirit. Sunday breakfast with Kenny and her little brother, Mike, were the highlight of her week. She also loved and appreciated the kind women that took care of her at Oak Trail Assisted Living. In her final days, she left us with profound wisdom. She explained that the medicine one needs in life is family, love, understanding, respect, and water.

Sherry is survived by her siblings, Paul "Chip" McCoy, Laurie McCoy Henry, Michael (Kim) (Former Wife, Judy) McCoy, Patrick (Betsy) McCoy; in-laws, Greg Spring, Tony Abramson; her gifted son, Kenny McCoy; and triple digits of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces as well.

Sherry is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Helen; sisters, Jan Wojcik, Bonnie McCoy McKerchie Spring, Cathy “Tacky” Abramson, and Carol McCoy; and sister-in-law, Ruth McCoy.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, beginning at 4:45 PM at Mary Murray Culture Center, 266 Homestead Road, Sugar Island, MI, 49783. The Traditional Ceremony will begin on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 1:30 PM.

Sherry’s final resting place will be at Wilwalk Cemetery, on Sugar Island, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Sherry’s funeral expenses.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.