Harry E. (Ned) Mackey's Obituary
Ned leaves behind many dear friends and his beloved family: his wife of 66 years, Pat; his 3 children Janet (Duke), Ned (Colleen), and Maryann (Frank); 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; and his sister, Ann.
Ned and Pat grew up together in Bend, OR. They married in 1957 and soon after moved to Tucson where they started a family. He dedicated his professional life to teaching English and coaching track and cross country, mostly at Rincon High School.
In retirement, he was an avid cyclist, singer, and writer-poet. His first book of ekphrastic poetry was titled “Art for Poetry’s Sake.” He collaborated with accomplished artist friends to create “Believing Is Seeing,” “Talk About Art!” and “Cat Tails.”
He was in a folk band in the 1960s called the Bean Alley Boys. In later years he was a member of the men’s chorus Sons of Orpheus and performed at many venues including the San Xavier Mission and the White House.
He was a mentor, colleague and friend to many during his rich life. Pat is eternally grateful to the family members and dedicated friends who comforted him in the last years of his life.
In lieu of flowers, consider making a contribution to a charity of your choice in his memory.
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