David Jeffrey "Jeff" MacKay – 56, Debert, passed away suddenly, as a result of an existing health condition, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at home. Born in Truro, he was a son of the late David and Beverly (Connors) MacKay.
Jeff was an electrician by trade and worked in Alberta, Iqaluit and Yellowknife for Kentz and then Ryfan. After returning to Nova Scotia, he worked for 20+ years for Stu Rath. An avid outdoorsman, Jeff loved to hunt, fish, golf and play slow-pitch baseball. Jeff’s "happy place" was at his close friend’s camp, his brother from another mother, Mike McNutt; they were the best of friends. Jeff had an infectious belly laugh, wicked sense of humour and outgoing personality that will be heard and remembered for many years to come. Many will remember Jeff for his signature t-shirts, always with a funny, and sometimes inappropriate, message!
Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Heather (Langille); children, Amber McNutt, Tara (Jeff) Moxsom, Bible Hill; grandchildren, Noah Moxsom, Addison Moxsom, Kash McNutt; brother, Trevor (Amanda) MacKay, Bible Hill; niece, Keira; nephews, David, Ollie; step-dad, Owen Coffell, Masstown, for whom he had great respect and enjoyed golfing together; extended family in Cape Breton and Ontario. Jeff is also survived by his dear aunt, Glenna Hilbourn, Toronto, who was like a mother figure to Jeff and his brothers after the passing of their own mother when they were children.
Along with his parents, Jeff was predeceased by his brother, Rob MacKay; step-mother, Doreen McKenna MacKay, who he loved and respected dearly.
Special thanks are extended to lifelong friends, Hubie Whidden and Brian Kennedy who have been such a big help over the past number of years. We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Don Rowe and staff at the Cancer Clinic at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, for their care, friendship and support over the years.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at a later date. If so desired, donations in Jeff’s memory to Colchester SPCA or a charity of choice are welcomed.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Tributes, words of comfort and memories may be shared at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com