Carol A. Mackey

Carol A. Mackey, 81, of Sioux City, Iowa, departed from this world on July 10, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her family and the love that she had so abundantly given and received throughout her life. A woman of great spirit and tenacity, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth and affection that permeated all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Carol was born on February 3, 1944, in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, to the late Elton and Viola (Wortman) Holder. She married Chuck Johnson and to that union three children were born, Jeff, Janell, and Jason Johnson. She later met and married the love of her life, Richard “Rick” Mackey, Sr.

Education played a foundational role in Carol’s life, as she thrived within the Sergeant Bluff School district, graduating in 1962. She was a star basketball player during her high school years. Her education laid the groundwork for a life filled with continued learning and curiosity. Her career spanned many years, beginning at Robb Ross and eventually leading her to Interbake Foods. She devoted 33 years to Interbake Foods, working her way through the ranks, eventually retiring as a highly accomplished Line Manager. Her relentless work ethic and dedication made her a respected member of the community both professionally and personally.

Carol’s passions extended beyond her professional endeavors. As a proud veteran of the United States Army, she served her country with honor, embodying the very qualities of resilience and strength that would define her character for the rest of her life. She was a mom to all, nurturing not only her family, but also many children of her community, especially her “adopted” son, Loren Brown.

In January 1981, Carol was united in marriage to her soulmate, Richard Mackey Sr, a partnership that brought endless moments of joy and adventure. Together they shared a passion for collecting an eclectic array of items, from sewing machines to cars, finding many treasures at flea markets and rummage sales on spontaneous Sunday drives, encapsulating their appreciation for the finer things in decades past. Carol and Rick’s love for animals enriched their family, as they welcomed numerous pets into their home over the years, each adding joy and companionship to their lives.

Carol found solace in gardening, relished in cooking, and embraced the simple pleasure of holidays filled with family laughter and love. Carol enjoyed riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle alongside her husband, a testament to her adventurous spirit and love for freedom. She looked forward to annual trips to the Black Hills, SD. Whether going for walks or celebrating special occasions with her family, she infused ordinary moments with extraordinary love. She was a superb quilter, leaving hundreds of quilts for her family to cherish and pass on to future generations. She knitted and sewed with expertise and enjoyed sharing her works of art with family and friends.

She is survived by her cherished sons, Jeff (Kim) Johnson of Dakota Dunes, SD, and Jason Johnson of Yankton, SD, and her beloved daughter, Janell Johnson and her significant other David DeMarre of Sioux City, IA. The joy of grandchildren – Shawn Johnson, and Holly (Wesley) Bowman of Sioux City, IA, and Kayla Johnson of Yankton, SD, - alongside great-grandchildren Delaney and Drake Johnson, and Waverly and Hadley Bowman, all of Sioux City, IA, enriched her life immeasurable. Additionally, Carol is survived by her loving sisters, Patricia (Jim) Gatewood of Dakota Dunes, SD, and Linda (Denny) Taylor of Sioux City, IA, each of whom carry pieces of her spirit within their hearts.

Carol’s journey in life was not without its share of grief, as she mourned the passage of her parents, and her husband Richard Mackey in October 2024. The loss of her brother, William Holder, daughter-in-law Jerri Johnson, and stepson, Richard “Dusty” Mackey, Jr, also marked her life with profound sorrow, yet she demonstrated an unwavering capacity for love and resilience.

As we remember Carol A. Mackey, our first thought is of the love and kindness shown to all. Her life is marked by love and laughter, the importance of family and friends, and never missing an opportunity to go on an adventure on the spur of the moment. Her legacy will be held tightly by her family who loved her so much.

Please join us as we celebrate Carol’s life on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 2-5pm, at The Pierce Street Mansion, 2901 Jackson Street, Sioux City, IA.