Joseph M. Mackey, affectionately known as "Joe" or "Jo Jo," passed away peacefully on Friday, September 13, 2024, in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. Born on March 21, 1944, in Suffern, New York, to Henry Mackey and Ann Picarello, Jo Jo made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

A 1963 graduate of Haverstraw High School, Jo Jo was a standout athlete, leading his school to eight consecutive championships from 1960-1963 in baseball, football, and basketball. His exceptional talents on the baseball field earned him a spot in the New York Yankees organization, where he played for six seasons, reaching their Triple-A affiliate.

Jo Jo was not just a remarkable athlete, but also a devoted patriot. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, where his bravery earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Purple Heart. A three-time Hall of Famer, he was inducted into the Rockland County, North Rockland, and Rockland County Softball Halls of Fame, a testament to his lifelong commitment to sports and excellence.

After his sports career, Jo Jo worked for the New York State Thruway Authority and owned Jo Jo's Shortstop Inn, where his warmth and charisma drew in people from all walks of life.

Beyond his achievements, Jo Jo was known for his magnetic personality. He had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome and valued, with a sense of humor that always left an impression. His ability to connect with people, whether friends or strangers, was truly one of a kind. Jo Jo had an incredible knack for reaching people in a positive way, and he made lifelong friends everywhere he went.

Jo Jo truly lived life to the fullest through his simple pleasures. Whether he was out golfing or fishing with his closest friends, enjoying a night of cards at the Eagles, Elks, or American Legion playing his

favorite game, "Feather Your Nest," or spending time with his grandchildren, Jo Jo always embraced the joy in life. His love for his family was profound, and he cherished every moment spent with them and his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

Jo Jo was predeceased by his wife, Christine Mackey, whom he married in 1973 and who passed away in 2002, his sister, Margaret Keahon and brother, Henry Mackey. He is survived by his two sons, Joseph and Jeffrey, his daughters-in-law, Alexa and Lauren, his grandchildren, Matthew, Joseph, and Thomas, his brother-in-law, Anthony D'Antoni, his sisters-in-law, Laura D'Antoni and Susan Mackey, his half-brother, Dean Hudson and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Jo Jo will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, humor, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

A memorial service will be held on October 18th from 6-8 at TJ McGowan and Sons Funeral Home in Garnerville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund at https://www.vvmf.org/Support-VVMF/Memorial-Donations/