Leon Gene Mackey

Leon G. Mackey passed away Thursday evening, April 9, 2020, at the age of 87. He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Jeanne; his daughters Sara, Melissa, Lynne, Suzanne; his grandchildren; great grandchildren; and brothers Tom and Bill. He was the proud and devoted son of the late Beryl and Thomas Mackey from Clearfield, Utah whom he continued to honor throughout his life. Our family story began 67 years ago when Leon and Jeanne met while at their summer jobs in Utah while attending the University of Utah. Leon would always say that he was smitten at first sight. As a proud patriot, Leon left college his senior year to join the US Army in the Paratrooper Division. He eventually left his position in the Army to complete his college education. He started his career with AXA/The Equitable where he would continue to work for more than 30 years in distinguished positions. Leon and Jeanne and their daughters moved to Tucson 50 years ago. He was a proud Tucsonan and rarely missed a University of Arizona football or basketball game. He always said he had the best seat in the house right in front of the tv. Leon was known for his quick wit, his sharp mind, and always having a political view. He had a rich knowledge and interest in US history. He was always up for a cup and conversation. Once Leon and Jeanne became empty nesters, their world really opened. They had a zest for travel which would take them all over the world for nearly 30 years. They visited every continent except for Antarctica and Australia. They travelled by cruise ships, riverboats, land tours, trains, planes and mostly with their long-time travel companions Wayne, Emery, Willy, Val, Betty and Rich, Susan and Ed. This was a special time in Leon's life and he loved reminiscing about their adventures. Leon also loved the simple things in life. He loved the sound of his wind chimes ringing in his mesquite tree; his music, like Bocelli, playing with the volume turned way up; the beauty of the Santa Catalina Mountains and watching his NY Yankees play baseball. And he loved his dogs over the years. Finally, Leon's greatest love in his life was for his family. He loved being a grandfather to Kristin, Jeni, Alex and Kyle and great grandfather to Adrienne and Oscar. He was a devoted husband to Jeanne. He was a wonderful, supportive and caring father who was cherished by his daughters. His family will miss him and honor him for the rest of their lives. Dad, you will always be our Captain. A private family burial to lay Leon to rest will take place and a Celebration of Life Party for Leon will be planned at a future date.