Walter Mackley
Walter Donahue Mackley, son of Janet Saunchegraw and Walter E. Mackley (Buck), was born on April 1, 1971 in St. Louis, MO. Wally was the most cheerful, fun-loving father, as well as a devoted husband to Judy Heads for the past twenty-seven years.
In 1992, Wally attended Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, MD. Walter trained in firefighting ship fires and forest fires from a helicopter. Dad honed his ability to stay calm and control every situation in his life-boat and basic deck training. He was certified in CPR and First Aid, which saved a lot of people’s lives over the years. Walter influenced many with his infinite wisdom and made the world a better place.
Walter’s favorite memories were entertaining his family and friends with jokes and adventurous stories, hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles. He took pride in collecting old antiques, hot wheels and other unique items. Entrepreneurship was what he was best at, enjoying the spontaneous times. He was a jack of all trades.
Surrounding his world with his most prized possession, family, Wally’s kindness, gigantic heart, fun personality and his humor was one of a kind and touched so many peoples’ hearts.
On April 10, 2018 Walter mackley passed away at his home in Leasburg, MO. He was 47 and 9 days of age. We lost a wonderful man too soon. Him and his goofy laugh will be dearly missed by all & never forgotten. His spirit will always lie with us.
Walter is survived by his wife, Judy Heads of Leasburg; his children, Alysia Mackley of Owensville, Cory Heads of Cuba, James Heads (wife, Jessica) of Cuba, Michael Mackley and Lindsey Mackley, both of Leasburg; two grandchildren; Makayla Heads and Levi Ferges; his mother, Janet (Belfield) Saunchegraw of Leasburg; his stepfather, Jerry Saunchegraw of St. James; stepmother, Sharon Witt of Festus; four brothers, Brian Mackley of Leasburg, Tim Tull (wife, Diane) of Festus, Walter “Rowdy” Mackley (wife, Tabitha) of Salem, MO and Kevin Mackley (wife, Courtney) of Meta, MO; sisters, Monica Mackley, Megan Mackley (significant other, Scotty Crocker), Holly Mackley, all of Meta, MO and Patty Dunham (husband, John) of St. James; brothers and sisters-in-law, aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.
Walter was preceded in death by his father, Buck Mackley; two brothers, Tommy and Rusty Mackley; and one sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl Mackley and husband Billy.
Visitation was held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday, April 30, 2018 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.
Funeral services were conducted 12 Noon, Monday, at the Eaton Funeral Home, with Pastor Carl Duff officiating. Burial to follow in Horine Cemetery in Richwoods, MO.
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan and Bourbon, MO.