Bernard J. Mackey Jr.

1939 - 2020

Mackey, Bernard J. Jr. SLINGERLANDS Bernard J. Mackey, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Tuesday, December 15, 2020. He was born July 26, 1939, the son of Bernard J. Mackey Sr. and Loretta Downs Mackey. He was predeceased by his wife of 35 years Donna Dunney Mackey in 2005. A former resident of Troy and Colonie, he lived for the last six years in Slingerlands with his daughter and her family. Raised and educated in Troy, he was a proud graduate of La Salle Institute's class of 1957 and served eight years in the New York State National Guard. Looking back on his youth, Bernie had fond memories of working at The Knotty Pine Tavern in Troy where the owners treated him like family. He worked in various agencies throughout his long career with the State of New York as Director of Procurement, retiring in 1993 from the State Assembly. Bernie was formerly involved in the Rensselaer County Democratic Committee. Bernie and Donna spent many winters in Clearwater Beach, Fla. They loved to travel, and in keeping with his pride of his Irish heritage, his favorite trip was to Ireland. They also enjoyed visits to casinos and Saratoga Race Track. He enjoyed playing golf and was a former member of Van Schaick Island Country Club. Bernie was dedicated to his family and will be greatly missed. Bernie was a loving father to R. Keith Smith (Gail), and Deborah Smith Aloise (James). He will be remembered fondly as "Papa," "Grandpa," and "Mackey" by Christopher Smith (Kimberly), Constance Smith, Keith Mathew Smith, Justine Aloise-Patka (Isaac), Sarah Aloise, and the late Michelle Aloise; as well as his great-grandchildren, Alexius Smith, Kya Roberts, I'lah Smith, James Smith, and Carter Smith. He is survived by his cousins, Rev. James Mackey, Sister Patricia Downs, Mary Buffoline; and was predeceased by his cousins, Kathy Buffaline and Eileen Nopper. Bernie also leaves behind his devoted cat, Tila. Our family would like to thank the many therapists, aides, nurses, and doctors for their care and support to Bernie and our family over the years. The family would also like to acknowledge his lifelong friends, Joe Marro and the late Ned Hickey and his niece Terri Buffaline who were dedicated to Bernie. Due to the precautions of COVID-19, services will be private for the immediate family only, officiated by his cousin Rev. James Mackey. Those wishing to remember Bernie in a special way may send a donation to the: Kathy Buffaline Patient Care Fund, Eddy Visiting Nurse and Rehab Association, 433 River St., Suite 3000, Troy, NY 12180.