Crainza Lee McKoy

Mr. Crainza Lee McKoy, age 68, of Conyers, GA, and formerly of Sanford, NC, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, June 26, 2025, at his residence.

In Loving Memory of Elder Crainza Lee McKoy
November 1, 1956 – June 26, 2025
May the work I’ve done speak for me

Elder Crainza Lee McKoy, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, peacefully entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at his home in Conyers, Georgia. He was 68 years old.

Born in Erwin, North Carolina, to Maylon McKoy and Lula Mae Blue, Crainza was raised in a home rooted in Christian faith. As a young boy, he worshiped at New Bethel Free Will Baptist Church in Sanford, NC, under the leadership of Elder Pastor John Henry Blue. It was during this formative period that he discovered a lifelong passion for music and began to learn to play the guitar. He would go on to serve faithfully as an Elder and choir member at Blandonia Presbyterian Church, and later joined the Fruit of the Spirit Ministry, where his commitment to worship and ministry continued to flourish.

Crainza began his education at W.B. Wicker School before attending Sanford Central High School shortly after its desegregation. A gifted athlete, he excelled in both wrestling and football, becoming a state finalist in wrestling and a standout two-way player on the school’s championship football team. His accomplishments earned him a place in the Lee County Sports Hall of Fame and recognition as the only athlete in East-West All-Star Football Game history selected to play two different positions. He graduated in 1975 and continued his athletic and academic journey at East Carolina University on a scholarship.

Crainza began his professional career at Sanford Finishing before joining Performance Fibers (formerly Honeywell and Allied Fibers) in New Hill, NC, where he worked diligently for 37 years, retiring as a Utility Operator. His faith in God and love for his family were at the center of his life. He was deeply committed to his community, volunteering countless hours to mentor and coach youth sports. Even after retiring from coaching, Crainza remained a steadfast supporter, attending games and offering guidance to his son, grandsons, nephews, and countless others in the community.

His leadership and integrity were recognized beyond the church and field. He was unanimously elected Worshipful Master of Sanford Lodge #101, the highest-ranking office in the Masonic Lodge. After serving with distinction, he continued his involvement as a respected Past Worshipful Master.

Elder McKoy was preceded in death by his father, Maylon McKoy; maternal grandparents, John Henry and Lula Bell Blue; and paternal grandparents, Sandy and Mary McKoy.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. He is survived by his devoted wife of 21 years, Gayle McKoy; mother, Lula Mae Blue, his children, Marques McKoy, Rory Brown Jr. and Shakira Alexander; grandchildren, Jaylen McKoy (Venus), Derran McKoy, Kamille Green, Marques McKoy Jr., Amare' McKoy, Camryn Alexander, and great-grandson, Andrew McKoy.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings: Maylon McKoy (Sidney) of El Monte, CA; Lovenzo Marks (Michele) of Goldsboro, NC; Jeffrey Marks of Sanford, NC; Robin Hill (Stephanie) of Damascus, MD; Gloria Patterson (Henry) of Sanford, NC; Christina Verbal (Otis) of Sanford, NC; and LuRhonda Blue (Fred) of Burlington, NC.

In addition, he is mourned by his mother-in-law, Rev. Mamie Hooker; sisters-in-law, Tonya Wilson, Devlynn Ferguson, and Dawn Lee-Smith (Larry); brothers-in-law, Daryl Ferguson and Damon Ferguson (Ariane); cherished aunts, Rutha Lee Ray of Broadway, NC; Georgia Blue Carter of Augusta, GA; Geraldine Blue and Lelia Blue of Sanford, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and classmates.

Elder Crainza Lee McKoy lived a life marked by humility, faith, and a profound sense of purpose. His memory will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends will be received at 1914 Tramway Road, Sanford, NC, 27330, from 3pm - 7pm, beginning Wednesday, July 9, 2025, through Friday, July 11, 2025.

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Sanford, NC