Former Florida Governor Kenneth “Buddy” MacKay, a revered statesman whose career spanned decades of public service, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. MacKay died during an afternoon nap on New Year’s Eve at his home in Ocala, surrounded by his wife and sons, a family spokesperson confirmed Thursday.
MacKay’s legacy is marked by his commitment to Florida and its people. Over the years, he served as a state legislator, U.S. representative, lieutenant governor, and governor.
His long career earned him a reputation as a principled and dedicated public servant who championed education, environmental preservation, and fiscal responsibility.
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Elected as lieutenant governor in 1990, MacKay joined the ticket of Democratic Governor Lawton Chiles. Together, they won re-election in 1994, forming a leadership duo known for focusing on healthcare reform and public accountability.
In 1998, MacKay sought to succeed Chiles as governor but narrowly lost to Republican Jeb Bush.
Despite the defeat, fate placed MacKay at the helm of the state when Chiles tragically passed away on December 12, 1998. MacKay stepped in as governor until Bush’s inauguration on January 6, 1999.
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