Browse the obituary of residing in the province of Ontario for funeral details
Obituary of John Thomas Mackey
John Thomas Mackey, 81, of Strathroy and London, passed away on May 8th 2025, under the watchful eye and loving care of family and the exceptional care team at Glendale Crossing. He leaves behind Judy, his wife of 63 years, his children and their spouses, Murray and Lynda, John (JJ) and Liz, and Mona and Frank. Grandchildren Thomas and Katie, Julia, Kevin and Mikayla, and Luke. John’s first great grandchild and namesake Murray John Mackey, was born during John’s final weeks, in time for some wonderful moments and traditional boasting.
John was the only child of loving parents Murray and Freda Mackey. His home was a bustling one, seldom quiet, with ever present grandmother, Mona, aunts, uncles, friends and neighbours. With guidance from his stern father, John pursued higher education, and with a young family and strong wife, he completed several degrees and designations. He rose quickly through the education system becoming a sought after teacher, principal, and Superintendent of Schools. As an educator and leader, he was innovative, forward thinking, demanding and compassionate. He was a quintessential perfectionist in all that he did. He was blessed to have retired at the age of 55, proud to have never fully accepted new technology and changing societal ways.
John reveled in his membership in Masonry, The Shrine and The Royal Order of Jesters. He chaired the Strathroy Police Commission, single handedly rescuing them from inevitable annexation by the Ontario Provincial Police. He did so, with his innate ability to lead, to inform and to charm, perhaps channeling Pierre Elliot Trudeau.
Dad enjoyed the game of golf, garnering a hole in one at Westhaven, always in the finest attire and wielding the very best equipment. He nurtured this passion for the links in his son Murray and grandson Thomas. John never missed teeing off on the 19th hole. When the road became rough, Judy ensured his safe transportation to and from the course, and friends like Al Wilson and others sacrificed their time to assist John with his game.
Dad was at his best amongst his closest friends, holding court and imbibing with the likes of Hoot, Jim, John, Avery, Gord, Brian and cousin Gary. The conversation was spirited, and no glass ever went empty at 236 Albert St.
John Mackey did not mince words, nor did he suffer fools gladly. It was a challenge for him to openly display affection, however it did manifest itself in his unyielding concern for the well being of his wife and kids. John more than made up for any lack of traditional “I love you’s” in his time spent at Glendale. He became the loving man that we all hoped was there. His care team at Glendale Crossing described him as a formidable, blue eyed giant of a man, forever in motion, unsettled, anxious, but always appreciative and kind. Who could ask for anything more?
In John’s memory, donations can be made to The Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, McCormick Care Foundation or the Charity of your choice.
Visitation will take place Monday June 23rd, 2025 from 11-1 followed by funeral service and celebration of life at Denning’s of Strathroy, 32 Metcalfe Street West. Interment Strathroy Cemetery. Cremation has taken place.
1943 2025
Death notice for the town of: Strathroy, Province: Ontario
death notice John
Thomas
Mackey 1943 2025
obituaries notice John
Thomas
Mackey 1943 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of John
Thomas
Mackey 1943 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
