Phillip Dyer Mackenzie

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Phillip Dyer Mackenzie, who departed this life peacefully on Saturday, July 12, 2025, with his grandson Patrick by his side. He was 67 years old.

Born in Santa Ana, California, Phil was the beloved son of the late Donald Grant Mackenzie and Marianne (Bernardini) Ibarra, and the devoted husband of the late Sharon Lee (Cormack) Mackenzie, who preceded him in death in January 2021.

Phil was a kind, patient, and generous man who loved deeply and lived fully. He was a cherished stepfather to Thomas E. Lavin (Ann Marie) and Michael P. Lavin (Khristine), and a proud, hands-on grandfather to M. Patrick Lavin, Jr., Taylor D. Lavin, Chloe M. Lavin, and Ashley N. Lavin. He was also lovingly remembered by his dear companion, Rosemary Giangiulio, with whom he shared many joyful adventures, including a long-awaited trip to Italy.

Phil is survived by his stepmother, Shirley Ann Mackenzie; his sisters, Deborah (Garrett) Alexander and Julianna (Eddie) McCaig; his brother, Lewis "Tate" (Sandy) Harman; and sisters-in-law Leah Mackenzie and Vicky Mackenzie. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and humor.

He was preceded in death by his siblings James Mackenzie, Tony Mackenzie, Timothy Mackenzie, and Rebecca (Mackenzie) Schroll.

Phil was a graduate of Towson University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts in 1986. A gifted and passionate artist, his creativity was expressed in many forms, including charcoal, watercolor, metal sculpture, and pottery. He found great joy in both creating and sharing his art.

He devoted over 36 years of service to Aberdeen Proving Ground, where he served with distinction as Acting Chief of Visual Information Services (1986–2016) and later as Executive Officer Visual Information Manager at Department of Army (2016–2022). Phil earned the respect and admiration of many through his professional integrity and kind demeanor.

He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—family vacations to Disney World, camping trips, cruises, making people laugh with his well-timed jokes, and most importantly, spending time with those he loved. Phil truly felt at home when surrounded by family, laughter, and love.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Phil’s memory may be made to the:

Ice House Co-op c/o Lynn Lavin 138 Independence Street Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Please note: "In memory of Phillip D. Mackenzie" for support of a children's art program.