OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A funeral service to honor the life and legacy of former Florida Governor Buddy MacKay has been scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 15.
MacKay, who passed away last week at the age of 91, will be celebrated at Fort King Presbyterian Church, a place he helped to build, located at 13 NE 36th Ave. in Ocala, Florida.
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The service will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a reception open to all attendees. In his retirement from politics and law, MacKay dedicated himself to family, conservation efforts, camellia gardening, and mediating family court cases. His obituary reflects a life filled with service to his community and his family.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in MacKay’s honor to one of three organizations close to his heart: the Florida Wildflower Foundation), Interfaith Emergency Services, or Fort King Presbyterian Church.
MacKay’s life spanned decades of public service, culminating in his brief tenure as Florida’s governor after Lawton Chiles’ death. His contributions to the state and his community will be remembered by many who gather to celebrate his life.
Editor’s Note: This article has been republished for timeliness.
Original story, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025: Former Florida governor and lieutenant governor Kenneth Hood MacKay Jr., affectionately known as Buddy MacKay, passed away peacefully at his home in Ocala on Tuesday, Dec. 31, at the age of 91, surrounded by his family.
Born and raised in Ocala, MacKay graduated from Ocala High School in 1950 and later earned his degree from the University of Florida. His remarkable career in public service left an indelible mark on Florida’s political landscape.
MacKay’s contributions as lieutenant governor under Governor Lawton Chiles and his brief tenure as Florida’s 42nd governor have been celebrated for their focus on education, environmental stewardship, and fiscal responsibility.
Known for his unwavering commitment to public service and his deep connection to his Ocala roots, MacKay’s legacy continues to inspire generations.
The United Way of Marion County shared on Facebook, “Robert Haight, President of United Way of Marion County, expresses condolences to the family on behalf of the United Way Board of Directors and staff. United Way of Marion County benefitted from Buddy’s service and leadership. Buddy served his community with authentic servant leadership. His contributions will be remembered as a legacy of serving his community, state, and nation.”
The MacKay family released a statement sharing their sadness over his passing and expressed gratitude for the support and memories shared by friends and community members. Details about memorial services have not yet been announced.