Los Alamos County Aquatic Center’s Denise McCoy Retires after 18 years

Published on February 28, 2025

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, the Los Alamos County Aquatic Center will close to the public for swimming from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM for a special retirement celebration in honor of Aquatic Center Facility Manager and Lifeguard, Denise McCoy (Dee).

After 18 years of dedicated service, Dee is retiring, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of commitment to the community and aquatic programs. Dee’s passion for aquatics began in the Spring of 1975 in the Pacific Northwest, when, as a 12-year-old junior high student, she first fell in love with the water. Over the next 45 years, she worked continuously with youth through various organizations, positions, and programs, and became a cornerstone of the Los Alamos County Aquatic Center.

Dee's career has been marked by her deep appreciation for the “lane warriors” who rise early, the local regulars who incorporate the pool into their daily routines, and the laughter of children splashing around. She fondly recalls moments like Miss Shelby running on the deck, Doctor Goddard’s friendly greetings, and the coaches calling out, “Ready, set, go!” These memories, along with the joy of seeing others embrace the water, will always hold a special place in her heart.

Dee played a significant role in leading the Leisure Lagoon project, which opened in the winter of 2022, and has been an advocate for providing the youth of the community opportunities for aquatic activities ranging from recreational swimming to swim lessons to lifeguarding positions.

As the longest-serving Aquatic Center Facility Manager at the Larry Walkup Aquatic Center in its 39 years, Dee’s impact is immeasurable. Her dedication has touched countless lives and exemplifies the power of following one’s passion. A mantra that Dee follows says it best: “Once a lifeguard, always a lifeguard!”

“Dee has a deep passion for aquatic programs and the staff that she works with. She has shared a breadth of knowledge with those around her over the years, and I wish her the best to her and her family,” stated Recreation Superintendent Katherine Hudspeth.

Staff and community members are invited to join in celebrating Dee’s remarkable contributions and to wish her well as she embarks on the next chapter of her journey.

Please note that during the retirement celebration, all public swimming activities, including access to the Main Pool, Therapy Pool, and Leisure Lagoon, will be unavailable from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. The Aquatic Center will resume regular operating hours at 3:30 PM.

For additional information or updates regarding Aquatic Center hours, please visit the Los Alamos County Aquatic Center website or contact the Aquatic Center at (505) 662-8170.