John Love Mackey

Mr. John Love Mackey of 2744 South Anderson Road, Catawba, South Carolina transitioned to his heavenly home on Thursday, January 30, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on September 7, 1947 to the late Thomasena Mackey Dunlap and Ulysses Dunlap.

John attended the public schools of York County, SC and graduated from Emmett Scott High School. He served in the US Army with active duty in the Vietnam War. He was employed by Springs Industries for many years serving as a Supervisor. After leaving Springs Industries, he worked for Rock Hill School District as a Bus Driver for almost 29 years which was his passion. He loved the students that rode his bus throughout those years and always looked out for them and didn’t hesitate to correct them when needed. He was also employed part-time at BP Convenient Store (formerly Little Giant) for numerous years where he was also fondly remembered.

John was a member of Tabernacle A.M.E. Zion Church where he served on the Evangelism Department, Trustee Board, Hospitality and Hymn Choir. He was former Vice President of the Mackey Dunlap Family Reunion Committee. He was a member of the Carolina Redskin Group and Activity Fellowship Club. He was an avid Washington Redskin “Commander” Fan.

John loved the LORD with all of his heart and soul. The life that he lived was a testament to it. He always shared the goodness of the Lord wherever he went and with whomever he met. He never met a stranger and loved everyone. He always told you that he loved you, even if it was his first time meeting you. He had a generous heart and would help you in any way that he could.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Yvonne Dunlap, stepbrothers, Robert Golden and Larry Barnett, nieces, Nikisha Whitlock and Drina Dunlap, nephew, Thomas Mclanahan, brother-in-law, Scott Taylor, sister-in-law, Deborah Dunlap.

Those left to cherish his fond and loving memories is his son, Garrett Howze of Clover SC; sisters, Stacey Dunlap of the home, Shirley Dunlap of Catawba SC, Patricia Boler (Shedd), Beverly Felder (Bernard) both of Rock Hill, SC and Barbara Taylor of Lancaster, SC; brothers, Walter Dunlap (Gerilyn Tonge) of Rock Hill, SC, James Dunlap (Carman) of Chester, SC, Gary Dunlap (Teresa) of Rock Hill, SC; grandchildren, Trevon Howze and Darius Howze; stepmother, Beaulah Dunlap, stepbrother, Harry Barnette; cousins who were raised together, Rosie Harris (Curtis), and Lucille McCruel both of Rock Hill, SC; uncle (raised together), James “Billy” Mackey (Mattie) of Catawba SC; a host of nieces, nephews, special cousins, cousins, special friends and friends.

Although John has gone to be with the Lord, his spirit will live in our hearts forever; the memories that we shared and the lessons of kindness and love taught! We will always love and miss you Big Brother~ Your Sisters and Brothers