Roy “Big Mackie” MacRae of Blackville was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather during his incredible 96 years of life. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, at Percy's Place, on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Born and raised in Blackville, to Lester and Christina MacRae, Roy grew up with his parents and two siblings developing a strong work ethic that he carried with him throughout his very full life. 

Upon graduating from high school, Roy went to work with NBTel. Shortly thereafter he opened the MacRae General Store, which he operated alongside his uncle Walter MacRae before taking on the position of manager at Lounsbury’s in Blackville, where he worked until his retirement in 1983.

When Roy was not working, he was busily raising six energetic sons with his lovely wife of 75 years, Christina (Ward) of Blissfield, N.B.

Together, they taught their sons the importance of family, and of giving back to their community.

Roy was proud of the village of Blackville that he called home, and he worked tirelessly to improve his community whether it be in the form of coaching minor softball and hockey teams, serving on the village Recreation Council, or creating memorable Canada Day parade floats to which the entire village grew to look forward, with great anticipation. In addition, he was instrumental in acquiring funding and support to build an outdoor rink, a bowling alley, as well as a new school after the 1972 fire which left countless students in the village without a place of learning. 

Every project Roy took on was done so with passion and a zest that few could match. Perhaps ...

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