Robert J. McKay

Robert McKay Obituary
Robert J. McKay, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on December 22, 1935, in Quincy, Bob's life was a tapestry woven with devotion to his family, service to his community, and a passion for nurturing the world around him.
Bob was the cornerstone of his loving family, celebrating 60 years of marriage with his cherished wife, Clara Noris McKay. Together, they built a legacy of love and laughter that will forever echo in the hearts of those they touched. A devoted father, Bob's wisdom and guidance shaped the lives of his children, Robin Norton and her husband John of Pocasset, MA, Maria McKay-Murphy and her husband Matthew of Milton, MA; and Alexander McKay and his wife Tierney of Marshfield, MA. His role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, leaving a lasting imprint on his eleven grandchildren, Christopher, Patrick, Connor, Caroline, Megan, Colleen, Owen, Olivia, Alex, Thomas, and Molly, and his great-grandchild, Emily Arbusto.
Bob's life was marked by his unwavering service to others. As a proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, he embodied the values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. His career in service to the Town of Milton was characterized by his tireless work ethic and dedication, culminating in his retirement as the Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. Bob's hands-on approach and commitment to excellence ensured that the town's facilities were maintained with the utmost care and attention.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob was a lifelong member of The Knights of Columbus, where he found camaraderie and purpose in the organization's charitable missions. His altruistic spirit led him to spend countless hours volunteering at local homeless shelters.
A man of many virtues, Bob was best described as loving, kind, and thoughtful. His gentle demeanor and warm smile were a comfort to all who knew him. He possessed an innate ability to see the good in people and to nurture it with encouragement and support. An avid gardener, Bob's hands were often found in the soil, tending to his plants with the same care he extended to his relationships-patiently, lovingly, and with a deep sense of commitment.
Bob is preceded in death by his father, Alexander McKay, his mother, Florence (Gladys) McKay, and his brother, George McKay. His life was a testament to the power of love and the impact one person can have on the world around them. His legacy is not only in the blooming gardens he left behind but in the lives he enriched through his presence.
As we bid farewell to Robert J. McKay, we take solace in the memories and lessons he imparted. His spirit continues to inspire us, and his memory will forever be a source of comfort and strength. Bob's story does not end here; it lives on through his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May we honor his memory by embodying the virtues he so effortlessly displayed-love, kindness, and thoughtfulness-in our own lives.
In remembrance of a life so beautifully lived, we celebrate Robert J. McKay, a true gentleman, whose legacy will continue to bloom for generations to come.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday March 20th at 10:00am at St. Mary of the Hills Church Milton. Burial will be held at a later date.
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