McCoys founder dies in San Marcos'

SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN) - San Marcos business leader and philanthropist Emmett McCoy has died.

McCoy, who grew his father’s roofing supply and contracting business, McCoy's, into a five-state chain, leaves behind his wife, Miriam McCoy.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Emmett McCoy, who has been an outstanding business leader and benefactor in our community for many years. Our hearts go out to Miriam McCoy, the McCoy family and the McCoy Corporation employees,” San Marcos Mayor Daniel Guerrero said.

The McCoys were longtime supporters of the San Marcos community. The couple was instrumental in helping to build the Hays Caldwell Women’s Center, the San Marcos Animal Shelter and even assisted the City of San Marcos in purchasing the Spring Lake Natural Area a few years ago.

The couple supported Texas State University in a big way when they established the McCoy College of Business Administration.

In 2004, McCoy and his wife made the largest philanthropic gift to Texas State in the university’s history – $20 million to enhance programs in business administration. In return, the university named its College of Business Administration the Emmett and Miriam McCoy College of Business Administration. Dedicated in 2006, Emmett and Miriam McCoy Hall on campus is also named in their honor and houses the McCoy College.

“Emmett McCoy was a man of unmatched integrity, honor and generosity. He led by example, and his leadership taught us lessons in dignity and humility. He was a dear and cherished friend of Texas State University, and it is a privilege to have known him. We will miss him very much,” Texas State University President Denise Trauth said.

In 2006, the McCoys received the university’s President’s Excellence Award and, in 2007, they were awarded honorary doctoral degrees by the university.

"Emmett McCoy leaves a lasting legacy, and we are profoundly grateful for his life,” Guerrero said.