Buddy MacKay announces his intentions to run for U.S. Senate Tallahassee, Florida 1988
Buddy MacKay after announcing his intentions to run for U.S. Senate in Tallahassee, Florida in 1988. Credit: Florida Library Archives

A funeral for Kenneth Hood “Buddy” MacKay, Jr., a former governor of the state of Florida who passed away last week at the age of 91, will be held in his hometown of Ocala next week.

A celebration of MacKay’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 15, at 1 p.m. at a church he helped build, Fort King Presbyterian. The church is located at 13 NE 36th Avenue in Ocala. All are welcome and a reception will follow.

On Tuesday morning, Ocala-News.com published MacKay’s obituary.

Kenneth H. Mackay
Kenneth H. “Buddy” Mackay passed away on December 31, 2024 at the age of 91.

MacKay died peacefully during an afternoon nap on December 31, 2024. At the time of his death, he was surrounded by family, including his wife of 65 years, Anne.

A graduate of Ocala High School and the University of Florida, MacKay dedicated decades of his life to serving his country, state, and community.

In lieu of flowers, MacKay’s family is requesting that donations be made in Buddy’s honor to the Florida Wildflower Foundation, Interfaith Emergency Services, or Fort King Presbyterian Church.