Former Florida Governor Buddy MacKay Dead At 91

Former Florida Governor Buddy MacKay. Credit: Florida Memory

OCALA, Florida - Former Florida Governor Buddy MacKay passed away at the age of 91 on January 2, 2025, in Ocala, Florida.

MacKay was a notable figure in Florida politics, having served as the state's governor for a brief period from December 12, 1998, to January 5, 1999, following the death of Governor Lawton Chiles. 

Before his time as governor, he held several other political offices, including lieutenant governor under Chiles, a member of the Florida House and Senate, and a U.S. Representative.

"We mourn the passing of Buddy MacKay, who served as the 42nd Governor of Florida. A U.S. Air Force veteran and lifelong public servant, MacKay was dedicated to our country and our state," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis posted on X.

"May he rest in peace."