Remembering a Distinguished Toastmaster


by Janet Cormier, DTM

Shortly after joining Toastmasters about 10 years ago, an announcement was made that the Area Governor wound be visiting during the next meeting. Being new to Toastmasters I equated the visit to a visit from the Governor of California. When Mr. W. D. McCoy arrived I felt honored that he would take time out of his busy schedule to visit The City of Champions. Mr. McCoy passed away earlier this year and during his funeral services, he received full military honors. I will always remember his warm smile and his camera.

RIP Mr. Area Governor!


Posted in Member Spotlight.

7 Comments

  1. Dynamic 90s produce speakers and leaders and W D McCoy sprang forth as one.
    W D has a giving heart that runneth over. The gift of singing. I asked him to share a song selection at my father home going and he gave with a smile and more.

    You will be missed.

  2. W.D really had the heart of a servant leader. When I was blessed to be District Sergeant At Arms, W.D gracefully reached out and asked if I needed help during district events. There after, every time we would see each other we would always talk for a few minutes and exchange a smile. You will be missed W.D. God Bless You. 🙂

  3. I had no idea until now that W.D. passed away. He was a good friend and we shared the same birthday. He was such a loving individual and always good spirited. I’m disappointed I wasn’t there to give my final respect to an individual who served his country and Toastmasters well. Rest in peace, my friend. You will always be remembered.

    Much love and admiration, Mary G. Russell, DTM, PID

    p.s. – it would be very nice if the district can do something to ensure all past & present members are notified of such a loss. This would be true for long term members who have a great history in the district and with so many Toastmaster friends. Thank you.

  4. It was an honor and a blessing to know W.D. McCoy. Always there with flash of the camera, a smile and that genuine caring greeting that always made you feel welcomed! Truly a District One legend and a friend forever. Always dressed dapper and sharp. He was truly smooth as WD . . . R.I.H My Friend.

  5. I all the time emailed this website post page to all my friends, since if like to read it afterward my contacts will too.

  6. WD was one of my Area Governors when I was a Division Governor. We had a lot of good times, laughing and planning contests. I considered him a friend. When I last saw him a few weeks before he passed, he told me of his condition and together we said no matter what happens, all is well. I will miss him, but I know all is well with his soul. Until we meet again…

  7. I remember that day as well, Janet. I did not know W.D. before then, but I soon found out just how dedicated he was to District One. When I attended his first contest, I saw how well loved he was, by not only Toastmasters members, but also non-members who attended to support him.

    Additionally, he would attend our meetings on a regular basis, not just as the Area Governor, but also as an enthusiastic member of Toastmasters. He was a fun leader and a fantastic friend.

    Thank you, W.D. !!

    (Paul Bushman, City of Champions)

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