Francis William Mackey, Jr.

Francis W. “Bill” Mackey, Jr., age 79, passed away on July 31, 2026. Beloved companion and husband of Maria, loving father to Catherine (Walt) Gaither, adoring PopPop to Grace and Mary. He is survived by his sister Mary Ann O’Boyle, niece Jennifer (George) Keller, grandnephew Jack, and life-long friends as well as cousins, John (Lynda) Wus, Michael (Rhoda) Wus, and Stephen Wus; Goddaughter Lynn (Greg) Hurrell, Godson Rob (Dana) Adams, as well as many other loving family members.

He was a good son, husband, father, Pop Pop, brother, and friend. Following in the footsteps of his father Bill Sr., a World War II Navy Veteran, and many other generations before him, he served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. The skills he acquired while serving on several aircraft carriers helped launch his lifelong career in Telecommunications. Being that this is the year we celebrate America's 250th Anniversary, he was deeply moved to learn that his 7th Great-Grandfather had fought in the American Revolutionary War.

Bill enjoyed taking his daughter and grandkids to the zoo, museums, theater, concerts, the shore, traveling, and of course the local library. He was an avid reader of military history and the local Port Richmond Library was one of his favorite places to go. He enjoyed music from many eras and genres, passing on the joy of music to his daughter and granddaughters. One of his favorites was bagpipe music and seeing the military bagpipe bands in Edinburgh, Scotland was a highlight of his life.

Bill looked forward every year to the Bridesburg Memorial Day Parade. Rain or shine the family would get together to share in the excitement and fun. He always enjoyed wearing one of his many Navy hats including that of his favorite ship USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31).

Bill was a fun, loving guy, friendly to all and generous in spirit. He always had a smile on his face and a good story to share.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather and celebrate his life on Friday, August 7, from 10 AM to 11 AM at St. John Cantius Chapel, 4410 Thompson Street, Philadelphia, PA. His Funeral Mass will begin at 11 AM, followed by interment and military honors at Lawnview Cemetery in Rockledge, Pennsylvania.

A large parking lot is located behind the church and can be accessed via the driveway entrance on the Thompson Street. The funeral home staff will guide you.

Please send memorial donations to The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, https://freelibraryfoundation.org/ or Vietnam Memorial Fund https://www.vvmf.org/