Dorothy Nell Mackie

Dorothy Nell Mackie, longtime resident of Portage, died peacefully at home of natural causes on Thursday, June 14th. She was preceded in death by her husband Ray Mackie. Dorothy is survived by a brother, Leon (Gwilla) Bennett, her children David (Julie) Mackie, Kay Young, and Leslie Mackie (Ken Chambers). Surviving are grandchildren Lori (James) Kison, Mark Mackie, Collin Mackie, Kellie (AJ) Roblee, Rachel (John) Murphy, Joel Young, Amanda (Chris) Becker, Pasha Khosravani, and Michael Mackie, as well as numerous great and great great grandchildren. Along with Jill Mackie, a very special daughter in law. Dot was born in Paducah, Ky., October 13, 1926, the daughter of Collin L. and Mary Case Bennett. She graduated from Tilghman High School in 1944. That same year she married Raymond Mackie, also of Paducah, a member of the US Air Force. After the war they moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., where Ray joined his father in the family jewelry business. In 1958 they moved to Kalamazoo, where Ray opened his own store, Mackie & Ellis Jewelers. Dot worked alongside Ray in the store for years once the children were older and was a great benefit to the success of the business. Dot and Ray had a wonderful relationship and especially enjoyed traveling and rock hunting. Extraordinarily gracious, kind, beautiful and strong-willed, she was loved by all who knew her. Her home was a place where all were welcome and received with a love that was special--warm, open, and caring. After Ray died, the businesses were sold and Dot retired to home life where she enjoyed reading and listening to classic music. She was a joy to all who knew her. Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care of SW Michigan.