James H. Mackie, 98, of Swansea, peacefully passed away at home on Friday, April 2, 2021. He was the husband of the late June A. (Cockcroft) Mackie.
Mr. Mackie was born in Fall River, son of the late George M. and Susie B. (Gifford) Mackie. A veteran of WWII, he served his country in the U.S. Army. During the invasion of Okinawa and Iwo Jima, he prepared topographical maps and designed runways, buildings, roads, and more for fighter aircraft installations. He was a team member developing a master plan for the rebuilding of Naha, the destroyed capital city of Okinawa. After leaving the service, he obtained his degree in architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design. Prior to his retirement, he worked as an architectural designer for I.T. Almy Associates of Somerset for fifty years. He was a recreational pilot and enjoyed bringing friends and family for short flights. He was a member of the Royal Travelers Club as well as a charter member of the former Somerset-Swansea Rotary Club, where he had also served as president, treasurer, and board member. Additionally, he served many years on the Executive Board of Directors for the greater Fall River Mental Health Clinic Association.
He enjoyed his summers on Cadman's Neck in Westport where he passed time on his motor and sailboats with family members.
He is survived by his granddaughter: Katherine Bean of Acushnet, her partner Patrick Gallagher; son-in-law, David Bean of Lunenburg; daughter-in-law, Joanne Mackie of Westport; and several nieces and nephews.
He was the father of the late Bonnie Bean and Jay Mackie and brother of the late Susie, Rose, Helen, Evelyn, Phyllis, George, Norman, and William.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Richie Silva, Mr. Mackie's Visiting Angel prior to his move to assisted living, his niece Pamela Hebert, and to the staff at Autumn Glen for the compassionate care they gave to him.
A private graveside service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Compassionate Care ALS (https://ccals.org/donate/); the American Cancer Society; the United Way; Visiting Angels; or a charity of your choice.