CMSgt. Harold L. “Mac” McKenzie, USAF, Retired, of Summerville, husband of Cleo Arnette McKenzie, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2017 at Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Hospital in Charleston, SC.
A visitation was held on Monday, April 10, 2017 from 6 o’clock until 8 o’clock PM at James A. Dyal Funeral Home. A graveside service with full military honors was held on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 12 o’clock PM at Beaufort National Cemetery, 1601 Boundary Street, Beaufort, SC.
Born on January 3, 1939 in Dillon, SC, he was the son of the late Wallie James McKenzie and Isadora Jackson McKenzie of Dillon, SC. Harold proudly served his country for 30 years in the United States Air Force and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant. He attended many technical schools in his Air Force career receiving numerous awards in recognition of his distinguished service. He was an Avionics Superintendent and a veteran of the Vietnam War. He was of the Baptist Faith.
Harold was employed by Lockheed Systems at Charleston Air Force Base and DYN Corporation at the Charleston Naval Weapons Station after his Air Force retirement. He was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, Clemson Tigers and Summerville Green Wave. He was an active member and supporter of the Briarwood Civic Association where he made his home for 37 years.
Harold is survived by his wife of 56 years, Cleo; son, Dr. Kevin McKenzie (Heather) of Seneca, SC; daughters, Karen Fleischauer (Lelon) of North Charleston, SC and Susan Reeves of Clemson, SC; brothers, Harry McKenzie (Renee) of Dillon, SC, Larry McKenzie (Rachel) of San Mateo, FL; sisters, Teresa Cook (Ken) and Linda Hyatt (Leon) of Dillon, SC; grandchildren, Allison Clayton (Tripp) of Summerville, SC, Morgan Fleischauer of Alpharetta, GA, Hannah and Sara Reeves of Clemson, SC, Ryleigh and Landry McKenzie of Seneca, SC; one great-grandchild, Raegan Leigh Clayton of Summerville, SC and many nieces and nephews.
Mr. McKenzie was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Wanda Mae McKenzie, Mary Elizabeth Caulder, Virginia Cannon and brother William James McKenzie of Dillon, SC.
The joys of his life were his children, grandchildren and great grandchild. He also enjoyed his morning coffee at the McDonald’s in Summerville where he visited with many of his military friends and others who wanted to share with this special group and the many conversations and opinions expressed.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016. His family is grateful to the Archdale DCI clinic and Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Hospital for their professional and tender care throughout his illness.
A memorial message may be written to the family by visiting our website at www.jamesadyal.com.
ARRANGEMENTS BY JAMES A. DYAL FUNERAL HOME, 303 SOUTH MAIN STREET, SUMMERVILLE, SC 29483 (843)873-4040.