Sinclair James “Tony” Mackay, weeks from his 92nd birthday, passed away April 15, 2026. Tony was born on June 4, 1934, in Bowraville, New South Wales, Australia. He was the third son of nine children. His parents were SJ and Alizan Mackay.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 1 sister and his beloved eldest daughter Andrea Ellen. He is survived by the mother of his children, Anina and her husband John W. Luff; children Jamie Mackay of Independence, Missouri; S. Douglas and wife Simone Mackay of Wichita, Kansas; Lachlan and Christin Mackay of Independence, Missouri; and Libby Mackay of San Diego, California, 5 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren.

Tony’s journey was one of varied and numerous accomplishments. Tony came to America in 1955 to attend Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa. There he met Laura Anina Larsen, daughter of Ed and Lois Larsen. They married in August 1957. Two days later, Tony and Anina departed for Australia, where Tony worked as a grower of bananas and vegetables in the rich Nambucca Valley. After the birth of their first two children, the family returned to Independence, Missouri, in 1962. Tony worked multiple jobs to take care of his growing family, ultimately becoming a master electrician. He formed his own company, “Mackay Electric.” Tony employed several of his brothers from Australia, numerous brothers-in-law and various other family members, knowing how important it was to establish a trade. He was a veteran of the Australian National Service, a commitment that underscored his sense of duty and patriotism and strong belief that “all people” deserved to be treated with dignity and respect.

Tony’s number one priority was family. He spent his life advising, encouraging and advancing their dreams and progress. He was consistently generous with his time, resources, and wisdom shaping and guiding lives and character. In addition, his positive impact immeasurably influenced the lives of his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and the lives of many friends and family. Tony was a stable, always dependable presence for so many.

Beyond his professional and academic achievements, those who knew him best remember a man interested in a variety of life experiences. Whether it be farming, gardening, playing golf and tennis, indulging in the beauty of poetry and song or watching and encouraging his children and grandchildren’s sport activities. These interests were not just pastimes but reflections of a vibrant personality that embraced life with enthusiasm and grace. Tony never stopped learning and challenging himself and others, participating in book clubs, community social activities, exercising regularly, and traveling internationally into his 90s.

He was a brilliant storyteller, with many of his stories enduring through the years, some growing grander than they had been, but always remaining charming and fresh. Tony retained a childlike curiosity, intrigued by current events and everyday fascinations until the very end. While his body aged, he never lost the impish grin, wide smile and infectious laugh you would expect from a younger man. His earthly presence will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service to honor Tony’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM at the Stone Church Community of Christ, located at 1012 W Lexington Ave, Independence, Missouri, with a reception immediately following. This gathering will offer those who knew Tony an opportunity to reflect on his legacy and celebrate a life well lived. Interment at Buckner Cemetery will follow the reception.

Consider donations to Kansas City Hospice House in place of flowers, Kansas City Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Road, 816-363-2600m https://kchospice.org/donate/ .