The Lindsay community is mourning the sudden passing of Linden “Lindy” Mackey, one of Lindsay’s most prominent citizens, at the age of 58.
The co-owner of Mackey Funeral Home and the sole Mackey still involved in the three-generation family business, he was also the co-owner of Mackey Celebrations and Stoddart Funeral Home Inc.
On Monday afternoon (May 5), Mackey Funeral Home posted a statement on their Facebook page about his passing.
“Today, we mourn the loss of an extraordinary family man, dedicated businessman, and cherished member of our community. Linden was the heart and soul of our business, carrying forward the legacy of his father and grandfather with humility, grace, and pride. He never sought the spotlight — his kindness spoke for itself. Linden was generous to a fault, always putting others before himself.”
“As a community, we grieve the loss of a beloved friend, mentor, and leader,” the statement continues. “Linden’s absence will be deeply felt, but his impact will live on. Let us honour his memory by reflecting on all he has given to this community and the lives he touched along the way.”
“Life is sweet because of the friends we have made – Lindy Mackey.”
Born and raised in Lindsay, Mackey became a licensed funeral director in 1987. He was actively involved in the community through many local agencies and was inducted into the Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes Business Hall of Fame last year.
VIDEO: Linden Mackey – JA City of Kawartha Lakes Business Hall of Fame Inductee 2024
“Linden was a constant, friendly presence in our downtown, and his kindness, compassion, and warmth touched everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him,” states the Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Area on its Facebook page. “He operated his businesses with these same qualities, supporting so many of us in our most difficult times. Linden’s contributions to our community have been immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt.”
The statement on Mackey Funeral Home’s Facebook page has almost 900 reactions and over 450 comments, with many local residents, businesses, and organizations sharing their condolences and memories of Mackey. Many of the comments note Mackey’s kindness, compassion, and generosity.
“Linden leaves an immense hole in our community but his legacy as a remarkable businessman, leader and kind soul carries on eternally,” reads a comment from the Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce.
“We mourn the loss of a great friend, mentor and leader of our time,” reads a comment from Olympia Restaurant.
“As a long-time supporter and friend of Community Care, Lindy exemplified what it means to care deeply for your neighbours and showed steadfast compassion, generosity, and commitment,” reads a comment from Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes. “We are deeply grateful for all he gave to our community.”
“Linden brightened our lunch table each month — giving generously of himself, his profession to our estate planning council,” reads a comment from the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes. “He was a remarkable community leader and offers a strong legacy.”
“Lindy was not only a generous theatre sponsor and dedicated board member, but also a passionate advocate for the arts and a true community builder,” writes FLATO Academy Theatre on its Facebook page. “He devoted countless hours to the theatre — helping with sets, performing on stage, cheering on loved ones in productions, announcing dance recitals, contributing in countless other ways.”
Mackey leaves behind his wife Stephanie, owner of Lindsay Dance Studio, and their four children Sophia, Thomas, Joey, and Natasha.
Information about funeral arrangements is not yet available.
This story has been updated with additional comments and a Business Hall of Fame video about Mackey.
