Barbara Lou Mackey

Barbara was born on October 9, 1931, in Flint, Michigan, the daughter of the late Ray Clark and Doris Nemethy Winters. Barbara was raised by her grandmother, Phoebe Nemethy, on Avenue A in Flint, Michigan.

Barbara graduated from Flint Northern High School in 1949. She married her first husband, Michael Ross, in 1951, and together they built a loving home in Burton, Michigan, where they raised their five children. A devoted homemaker, Barbara created a life centered on family, tradition, and togetherness. Holidays and weekends were often spent with her parents at their homes in either Saginaw or on the Tittabawassee River—places filled with laughter, fun, and memories that shaped generations.

As her children became more independent, Barbara joined Consumers Power and worked for many years as a customer service representative. Barbara was very fond of playing cards, especially pinochle and bridge.

In 1984, Barbara married Bruce Mackey, and together they built a life filled with warmth, hospitality, and adventure. They divided their time among their homes in Grand Blanc and Boyne City, Michigan, as well as Osprey, Florida, hosting countless family reunions and gatherings over the years that became cherished traditions. Barbara loved the sunshine and was especially grateful for the opportunity to spend her winters in Florida. She and Bruce were active members of the Elks in Grand Blanc, and they treasured frequent get-togethers and the companionship of their many dear friends.

More than anything, Barbara was a beautiful soul and an angel on earth. Her loving heart, encouraging words, and gentle, caring nature were a gift to everyone she met. Her quiet spirit and ever-present smile touched countless lives, earning the deep affection of all who were blessed to know her. She made the world brighter, kinder, and infinitely more beautiful simply by being in it. Barbara leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, faith, and family, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Bruce Mackey, and her son, Thomas Ross. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Robert Sigter) Sulzman, and three sons, Joseph (Cheryl) Ross, Daniel (Susan) Ross and Matthew (Lisbeth Ross); her 12 grandchildren, Brett Sulzman, Ryan Sulzman, Patrick (Kayla) Sulzman, Jacob Sulzman, Danielle (Rachel) Ross, Jennifer (Matthew) Rasch, Carrie (Randy) Witzel, Steven (Susie) Ross, Erica Ross, Michael (Jana) Ross, Brandon Ross and Alissa (Taylor) Buckthorpe; and her 11 great-grandchildren, Destiny, Darlyn, Blair, Samuel, Nora, Jase, Draven, Rose, Violet, Jolie and Harvey. She is also survived by her brothers, Gary Clark and Dennis (Ellen) Clark, her stepson, Robert (Karen) Mackey and their extended families.

A private family burial service will take place in Sunset Hills Cemetery in Flint, Michigan. Barbara's family will celebrate her life at a July memorial service in Boyne City.

Condolences may be shared at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lansing-mi/barbara-mackey-12821931. Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Home of Lansing, Michigan, is in charge of arrangements.