Obituary: Joseph B. Mackay
Maine Artist Joseph B. Mackay Dies at 78
Westbrook, Maine – Joseph B. Mackay, a lifelong resident of the Maine coast and a prolific painter, died peacefully on June 1, 2026, at Seaside Rehabilitation in Portland after a brief battle with cancer. The 78‑year‑old was known for his vivid landscapes, dedication to gardening, and decades of teaching.
Mackay was born in Bar Harbor on September 13, 1947. He grew up in neighboring Winter Harbor and later lived in Boston, Bangor, Bar Harbor, and Westbrook. After earning a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the Rhode Island School of Design, he pursued a career that blended art and nature. He taught at the Heron School of Art, reportedly at Indianapolis University, and spent more than forty years as an estate gardener for the Dixon family at Grindstone Neck, Winter Harbor. His own canvases—hundreds of oil paintings—were displayed in galleries across New England and collected by friends and patrons.
“He loved the color of the sea and the light on the rocks,” said a close friend. “His work always felt like a celebration of Maine’s rugged beauty.”
Mackay’s family and friends say his creativity was matched only by his generosity. “Joe put away his paintbrushes and palette, but his colorful legacy will live on as a reminder of our love for him,” the family wrote in an obituary notice.
He was survived by his longtime life partner of 43 years, Alan Parks of Westbrook. The couple’s enduring partnership was a source of joy for many in the community. He also leaves behind four sisters—Johanna Smith (Winter Harbor), Mary Mackay (Ellsworth), Susan Luther (Holmdel, New Jersey), and Sandy (Peter) Drinkwater (Winter Harbor); several nieces and nephews, including Tricia (Chuck) Chavtur, Sarah (Chris) Joy, Alison (Kyle) Stearns, Thomas Hill, and Caleb (Kirsten) Luther; as well as numerous grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, and friends.
Mackay’s family extends gratitude to the staff at Northern Light Mercy Hospital and Seaside Rehabilitation for their compassion and care during his final days.
A celebration of Mr. Mackay’s life will take place in Winter Harbor in mid‑August, inviting family, friends, and members of the local art community to honor his contributions to Maine’s cultural heritage.
In remembrance of his life and work, the family encourages donations to Friends of Acadia, a nonprofit that supports conservation and public access to the region’s natural resources. The organization hopes that contributions will help preserve the landscapes that inspired Mackay’s art for generations to come.
