"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted." Psalms 34:18
It is with heavy hearts that we share with you the news that Mrs. Mary Lee McCoy, principal of SHA from 2012-2020, passed away this morning following a brief illness. Mrs. McCoy was at home and surrounded by her family. There will be a service at a later date when more people can gather safely.
Mrs. McCoy devoted herself and her career to Catholic education serving as principal of Sacred Heart Academy. Prior to her eight-year tenure at Sacred Heart, Mrs. McCoy served as president and principal of Assumption High School and worked at the national level with the Mercy Education Systems of the Americas. She also served for a year as principal of DeSales High School. In the more than 35 years Mrs. McCoy spent in service to the Louisville Catholic community, she touched the lives of countless students, faculty, staff, and families.
Educating young women was Mrs. McCoy’s passion. She believed wholeheartedly in the mission to inspire, empower, and transform the students in her care into compassionate leaders. Mrs. McCoy had a deep understanding of the needs of developing young women with regards to academics as well as social and emotional well-being. She was empathetic to what the high school girls were experiencing but could also pivot to her experience as a parent in relating to the families.
Mrs. McCoy was a visionary leader, playing an integral role in the implementation of SHA’s 1:1 iPad program and the STEM program. She was also instrumental in the development and expansion of Sacred Heart Academy’s Learning Differences program. Under her leadership, the program grew from 50 to over 135 students, and an innovative space - the Horton Accessible Education Center - was realized. Additionally, it was during her tenure that the SHA Counseling department expanded in personnel and into a beautiful new suite. Commitment to meeting the needs of students was her first priority. As a school leader, she was devoted to ensuring an excellent education for all students, empowering teacher leadership, encouraging innovation, and ensuring mission effectiveness.
Mrs. McCoy was also a mother, grandmother, wife, friend, and colleague. She had an infectious laugh that could be heard throughout the building. Faculty and students alike will remember her boisterous laughter, genuine interest, and large Speedway Diet Coke that traveled with her everywhere! Her warm, friendly personality and her great sense of humor made everyone feel welcomed and comfortable.
Mrs. McCoy left an indelible mark on all of us and will be greatly missed.
Please join us in lifting Mrs. McCoy and her family in prayer. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. May the grace and peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard the hearts of the McCoy family at this time.
