Bertie Mae McCoy

Ms. Bertie, age 91, returned Home, on Saturday evening June 23rd, after a long convalescence at Central Continuing Care in Mount Airy. She was born August 22, 1926, in Surry County, graduated from Flat Rock High School in 1943, and married in 1946. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe “Bill” Johnson and Roxie New Johnson, her brother Gurney, her eldest son, Harrell Jr. “Hal”, and her former husband Harrell Sr. Her remaining son, Vann, retuned to Mount Airy in 2011 after 25 years in ministry to care for her in her declining years.  Bertie owned McCoy/Graham Florist for several years, providing beauty and joy for moments of celebration and sorrow. Her favorite occupation was as greeter for the Mount Airy Visitor’s Center, for which she was the first greeter, originally using the ticket booth of the Earle Theater with five rack cards and a space heater, and then for many years at the Blue House on Main Street working with one of her closest friends, Ann Vaughn.  Bertie was known for her zest for life and adventure, her love of natural beauty especially in flowers, and for her quick brutally honest sense of humor that brought joy to so many.  Surviving her are beloved members of her family, including her nephew GW Johnson and his wife Connie, along with a host of great-nephews and nieces, along with her closest friends Mary Lee Gravely and Ann Vaughn.  A brief memorial service will be held at Salem Methodist Church Friday, June 29th, at 4:00 PM followed by a reception and sharing fond memories. All are welcome.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salem United Methodist Church.  Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.