McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family: The Irwin Family

Region II Irwin Family

Congratulations to the McCoy’s Ranch Family from Region 2 The Irwin Family of Andrews, Texas. This ranch family consists of Coy and Missy (Melissa) Irwin and their two kids, Emma (17) and Hunter (16). 

“I’m a fourth-generation rancher,” says Coy. “Our family began ranching here in the early 1900s, and we’ve been running cattle in this area ever since. It’s just in our blood.”

The Irwins live and breathe the ranching lifestyle—season after season, calf after calf. Irwin Ranches, Inc. a multi-generational cow/calf operation rooted deeply in Andrews County. Today, the Irwins run about 400 head of momma cows across 40,000 leased acres. Their operation follows the rhythm of the seasons—feeding and branding in the winter, chasing spring rodeos and sports, weaning calves in the summer, and squeezing in projects before school starts back up in August.

“Sometimes the seasons feel like they fly by in just a few weeks,” Coy laughs. “It never really slows down, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

When they’re not working cattle, Emma and Hunter are in the rodeo arena. Emma competes in team roping, breakaway, barrels, and poles, while Hunter focuses on team roping. Rodeo is a passion that brings the family together—and out of town—for weekends on the road.

“One of the things we love most is getting to spend time at the Region 2 THSRA Rodeos,” says Coy. “Region 2 has such a great reputation, and we want to do our part to make sure it stays that way.”

Education is flexible to fit the lifestyle. “Emma does her schooling online, which lets her help more around the ranch and focus on rodeo,” Missy explains. “Hunter goes to public school here in Andrews, and when he has time, he jumps in and helps out too. They both play a big role in our operation.”

Even with busy schedules, the Irwins make time for each other. “When we’re home on the weekends, one of our favorite things to do is cook or BBQ together,” says Missy. “We also like to sneak in a round of golf now and then—just to laugh, have fun, and take a little break.”

The ranch work is a team effort. “We all work together and make sure things that need to be done, get done,” Coy says. “There’s an old saying: Behind every successful rancher is a wife that works in town. That’s definitely true here. Missy works in the mortgage business during the week, either in the office or from home, and still finds time to help out on the ranch.”

Beyond the cattle and the chaos, the Irwins live by a strong code of values—community, kindness, and helping hands.

“I was raised to treat neighbors and friends like family,” Coy shares. “In the ranching world, you jump in and help when someone needs it—whether it’s a middle-of-the-night call or a neighbor in crisis. That’s just how it works out here.”

Ranching is tough, unpredictable, and often exhausting—but for the Irwins, it’s worth every minute.“This lifestyle has its ups and downs,” says Coy. “But I wouldn’t trade it for any 8-to-5 job. We get to spend time as a family and live the life we were raised around. There’s nothing like it.”

Though the closest McCoy’s store is over an hour away, the Irwins don’t mind making the trip when needed. “We don’t shop there all the time, but when we need certain ranch supplies, McCoy’s has the things you just can’t get anywhere else,” Coy notes.

Being chosen as a McCoy’s Ranch Family means more than just recognition—it’s a celebration of their way of life. “It’s truly an honor to be selected,” says Missy. “We love that THSRA and McCoy’s partner to give kids opportunities that most don’t get. It means a lot to our family.”