James Edward McKoy was born June 6, 1945, to the late James Iley McKoy and Essie McKoy, in Kelly, NC. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior early in life and was known for his kind and gentle spirit toward all who were fortunate to cross his path. He established early in life a great work ethic as he landed his first job as a bus driver at Bladen County Public schools at the age of 16. James received his formal education from East Arcadia High School, located in Riegelwood, North Carolina, and graduated in1962. Later, he moved to Trenton NJ to start his next job at Princeton University and met the love of his life, Mrs. Gwendolyn Geneva Payne. They were wedded in holy matrimonial in January 1967 and remained faithful and devoted for 55 years. James would go on to hold positions at Switlik Parachute Corporation, Cartex Corporation, Granville Charter School, the United States Post Office, and then back to Princeton University. He was often referred to as “Bruh” and “Pop Pop” to those who knew him best.
On Wednesday, May 4, 2022, he transitioned from labor to reward with his heavenly father. In addition to his father (James McKoy), and mother (Essie Mckoy), he was preceded in death by his brother Lionel McKoy, and sister Kate Hemmingway.
He is survived by his wife Gwendolyn G. McKoy, son Howard V. McKoy (Lisa McKoy) of Washington State, and daughters Denise C. McKoy-Williams (Zachary Williams) of Virginia, and Gwendolyn J. McKoy of New Jersey. Brother Charles V. McKoy (Cliffertine McKoy) of North Carolina, sisters Mary Bessant of New Jersey, and Hazel McKoy of North Carolina. Brother-In-Law, David Hemmingway of South Carolina, Sisters-In-Law Barbara Little (Alvin Little), Elizabeth Payne, and Adrea Higgenbotham of New Jersey, and his special grandson Taj McKoy. He had three additional grandsons, three granddaughters, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 1pm, Thursday, May 12, 2022 at Hughes Funeral Home, 324 Bellevue Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618. Calling hours will be 11am until the time of service. Interment will be private.
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