Making a difference in one’s community - one’s world - can take on many forms. And the results of those good deeds touch many in the here-and-now,while forming a lasting legacy that touches future generations. 

That’s why The Mexico Ledger honors Hidden Heroes.

Laddonia resident Missy McCoskey is one such Hero and she was presented with her Hidden Hero cape in a surprise ceremony at Genesis Church Sunday. Her fellow church-goers were happy to recognize her.

“Missy has turned many lives around by being a foster mom to kids that may be harder to place due to their age or circumstances,” said fellow church member, Melinda Bastian. “She is always listening to them and what’s actually behind what they’re saying and asking.  She finds ways to weave life lessons into everyday conversations with them.”

Missy is a middle school math teacher and cheer coach at Community R-6.

“In our community, Missy stands out as a remarkable individual who embodies the spirit of selflessness,” said one of her Community R-6 co-workers. 

Examples abound, although many fly under the radar.

“Known for her unwavering willingness to help, Missy often acts behind the scenes, stepping in whenever she sees a need,” said her co-worker. “As a single parent, Missy not only nurtures her own children but also instills in them the value of helping others,” said.

Missy’s kids actively participate in setting up at church, learning the importance of community service from their mother’s example.

And her compassion extends beyond her immediate family. She has fostered and adopted multiple children, providing them with a loving home. Additionally, former students have turned to her in times of need, seeking a safe place to stay.

In her role as the junior High cheer coach at Community R-VI, Missy often uses her own finances to ensure that her cheerleaders are well-fed and appropriately attired. She also takes the initiative to check during school book fairs, eager to purchase books for students who may not have the means to buy them. 

“Missy has worked tirelessly with students engaged in online schooling, striving to help them succeed in their classes; many can graduate thanks to her unwavering support,” said the spokesperson. Time and again, Missy selflessly gives of her time, resources, and heart to support others, all without seeking recognition or reward. Her quiet acts of kindness make her a true hidden hero in our community.”

Chris Creech, worship and children’s pastor, witnesses Missy’s deeds on a regular basis.

“Missy does not advertise herself as a hero,” said Creech. “She is extremely humble, behind-the-scenes, and quiet about the amazing things she does.”

He points to the many children Missy has fostered, adopting many of them.

“As a children’s pastor, I have heard several of these kids talk about their lives before and how Missy has made their lives better,” Creech said.

She is active in Genesis Church in Mexico, where she assists with setting up and managing the audiovisual and sound system, demonstrating her commitment to service.

 “She is always one of the people arriving earliest at church to help set up on Sunday,” said Creech, “She helps with our tech team, and she constantly thinks of ways to make things better and ways to serve our community and church.”

Her acts simply can’t be quantified.

“The impact on those around her is obvious,” Creech said. “It is impossible to be around Missy and not smile. She is constantly encouraging, positive, and thankful. She is an absolute joy to be around, and I could not think of a more deserving person to be considered a hero.”

The Mexico Ledger is pleased to honor Missy McCoskey as our third Hidden Hero.

Do you know someone who volunteers their time to be a hero to others? Submit your nomination to: https://mexicoledger.com/hiddenhero/ .