Yoshimi McCoy's Obituary
Yoshimi McCoy, 85, of Cinnaminson, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 6, 2026.
Born November 23, 1940, in Osaka, Japan, Yoshimi was the daughter of Kumaichi Akita and Kimi Akita (Sakamoto). She immigrated to the United States at the age of 28, beginning a life defined by independence, determination, and hard work.
While living in California, Yoshimi owned a dog kennel in Beverly Hills, where she trained and groomed dogs for well-known clients—work that reflected her lifelong love for dogs of every size and breed. Her journey also took her to Cuernavaca, Mexico, the “City of Eternal Spring,” where she briefly lived before returning to California and welcoming her daughter, Katrina. In 1980, they moved to New Jersey, where Yoshimi settled and raised her beloved daughter.
Yoshimi worked at Deborah Heart & Lung Center before retiring, later returning to work at Masi Dental Laboratories, Inc., where she helped make dental implants. An entrepreneur at heart, she also created small businesses of her own, including Freeze Dried Bonicals, and later Cheese & More—her passion project—which took her to farmers’ markets and antique flea markets from Philadelphia to the Jersey Shore, vending a variety of Italian-inspired delicacies.
A passionate cook, Yoshimi loved preparing Italian dishes and often joked that she was Sicilian. Strong-willed and determined, she liked to be in charge, and she was equally known for her culinary creativity, kindness, and generosity.
Yoshimi is survived by her loving daughter, Katrina McCoy, and her sister, Hiromi, of Saitama, Japan.
In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held.
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