It is with heartfelt sadness the family announces the passing of John Murray MacKay, age 76, on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Harbourview Hospital in Sydney Mines surrounded by family, music and love.

Born in Sydney on September 11, 1949, John was the son of the late Lillian (Jay) and Murray MacKay. 

Johnny spent many years working in construction as an ironworker.  He faced challenges that many people never fully understood, but through it all he remained a survivor. No matter what life put in front of him, he kept going, and there was something about him that always seemed to embrace life on his own terms.

Johnny is survived by his two sons Geoff (Barbie) and Joseph (Wendy), both in Alberta, his grandchildren Liam, Gavin, Evan and Marleigh; his siblings Gerald (Gertie), David (Shirley), Wendy (David) Neil, Elizabeth (Harold) Samson and Kenny (Heather), also many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Murray and Lillian MacKay, his siblings Marilyn, Beverley and Donald.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 11 at Bras d’Or Seniors Club at 66 Main St, Little Bras d’Or. Service will begin at 2pm followed by light refreshments. Online condolences may be sent to the family by leaving a message on the tribute wall of the obituary at www.wjdooley.com.

Memorial donations can be sent to Haley Street in lieu of flowers https://sites.google.com/haleystreet.net/haleystreet