COY, WILLIAM RICHARD, 91, passed away on December 1, 2013 at Summerfield Health & Rehab Center. He was born on December 27, 1921 to the late Gertrude and J.C. Coy.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Charles C., J.C. and Eugene; and three sisters, Helen Kiefer, Dorothy Kiefer and Margie Salzman. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Anna Belle Davidson Coy, his two loving daughters, Diane Santoro and Jo Ann Coy Allen (Jerry). Also surviving are many nieces and nephews. Special gratitude is expressed to his niece, Carolyn B. Fleener, her husband, Jim and son, David, and his nephew, Pryce Davidson, Jr., for their love and support. He is also survived by one sister, Pauline Cothran Cerminara; and sister-in law, Sandra Davidson. After graduating from Shawnee High School and Ahrens Trade School, Richard enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the Naval Armed Guard Service, where he attained the rank of Gunners Mate, 2nd Class. Richard saw action in both the European and Pacific theaters in World War II. He was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon and authorized to wear six bronze service stars on this ribbon, and was awarded the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, with authorization to wear a bronze service star. He also received a Letter of Commendation from the Commander of the U.S. Navy for his courageous and highly effective performance while serving on the SS Tabitha Brown. Shortly after the war, Richard was employed by DuPont de Nemours, as a Master Carpenter, and retired after 33 years of service. The family would like to thank the staff of Summerfield for their many acts of kindness, particularly his nurses, Tam HO and Brittany Thompson, and CNA's Rebecca, Shelley and Teresa. Visitation will be 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY, 40216. The funeral service is 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with internment at Cave Hill Cemetery.