Nicole Dawn McCoy

Nicole Dawn McCoy, age 41, of Carlisle, and formerly of Mechanicsburg, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus surrounded by her loving family and friends on Monday, October 13, 2025. Nicole was born on Sunday, April 1, 1984, in Johnstown to Stuart McCoy and Cathy (Thomas) McCoy. Nicole is preceded in Death by her paternal grandparents: James C. McCoy and Elizabeth I. (Krzysko) McCoy; and her uncle James M. McCoy.

Nicole’s survivors include her parents: Stuart and Cathy McCoy of Mechanicsburg; her brother, Ryan McCoy and sister-in-law, Halie, of Enola; her grandparents: Marlin and Carole Thomas, of Johnstown; her beloved friend, Heidi “Buddy” Smith and her mother, Candy Peck, of Carlisle; her friends: Dawn Swartz and Amanda Scholly; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family who loved her very much.

Nicole graduated from Cumberland Valley High School as part of the class of 2002. She was part of the special needs class and made many friends. Nicole found her time in high school very meaningful and fulfilling. In 2009, Nicole moved in with Heidi. For sixteen years, Nicole and Heidi developed a special bond and friendship. Nicole had many interests: she loved to go to the beach and amusement parks. She loved to bake delicious cakes and cookies with Dawn Swartz and scrumptious cookies with Will Stevens. Nicole’s favorite singers were, Elvis Presley and the Gaither’s. Even though the past few years were spent in and out of hospitals, she still managed to make even more friends. Enough to even "fire" a few along the way. It was evident, that Nicole was a very special angel, who had a talent for making people feel loved. Her entire family sends their most heartfelt thanks to the staff at UPMC Carlisle Hospital who so lovingly cared for Nicole and who made her final journey peaceful. Nicole will be missed by all who knew her and loved her.

All are welcome to join Nicole’s family at her celebration of life open house and gathering of family and friends on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a time of remembrance at 1:00 p.m. at Buhrig’s Gathering Place, 25 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, (717) 766-3421 (next to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation); with Pastor Drew Peterson officiating. Over 100 parking spaces are available; just look for the “Buhrig” parking signs in all of the parking lots.

A celebration of Nicole’s life is being planned at her church in Johnstown and will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Nicole’s family invites those wishing to commemorate her life to plant a tree in her honor.

Nicole’s family has entrusted her care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Nicole’s full obituary, view her memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign her official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.