In Memoriam: David Maurice Mackey

A Legacy of Service and Community Impact

Historic Hopewell Valley, in Mercer Co., N.J., was the longtime beneficiary of the selfless work of a truly remarkable individual, David Mackey. As a trustee, president, and neighbor of The Hopewell Museum, David left an indelible mark on our community with his passion and commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.

David was born July 24, 1934 in Washington, D.C., to Justus U. Mackey and Isabel Louise née Cathey. He grew up in the nearby suburbs and graduated from Washington-Lee High School in Arlington, Virginia. He then studied at Kutztown University where he received a bachelor’s in Art Education in 1957. After two years of teaching, David was called to serve in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, and worked as a feature writer and photographer for regional military newspapers.

After his discharge and return to the States in 1960, he embarked on what would become a 33-year career as a beloved art teacher in the Princeton Regional School District, retiring in 1993. A Princeton High School publication featuring David characterized him in this manner:

“Each day Mr. Mackey comes to school armed. Armed, that is, with his truly magnanimous personality. He is much like Sir Thomas More; complete with finely tuned wit, dedication and integrity. But instead of being martyred by the hangman, Mr. Mackey will suffer the consequences of being such a consummately dedicated and hardworking teacher.”

David married Rebecca “Becky” Sachs in Metuchen, N.J., in June 1963. They moved to 24 East Broad Street, Hopewell, next door to The Hopewell Museum, in 1971. Becky taught physical education and coached in the Princeton Regional School District. They were devoted to each other for 37 years until Becky’s passing in August 2000, at the age of 63.

Throughout his years as a teacher, David was very active in educational organizations. He served as president and vice president of the Princeton Regional Education Association, as recording secretary, vice president, and president of the Mercer County Education Association, and as president of the Art Educators of New Jersey. In 1986 the latter organization presented him with its “Outstanding Art Educator Award” and life membership. He was also affiliated with the New Jersey Education Association. In his retirement, he kept up his interest in art education as a docent for the Princeton University Art Museum.

Community Involvement

David was well known for his interest in railroading. He was an avid “train chaser” and collector of railroad memorabilia. He served as president of the New Hope Steam Trains Foundation for two years; and he occasionally worked moving freight for the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad. He is affectionately remembered for his model train displays and demonstrations at The Hopewell Museum’s annual Holiday Tea, always donning an engineer’s cap.

David’s longtime association with the Museum was a happy one. It endeared him to successions of trustees, staff, and volunteers. He became president of the Museum board at its annual meeting in April 1986, and remained in this position until April 2017—a tenure of 31 years! Prior to his decision to retire from the board, the trustees had resolved that David would automatically become a trustee emeritus whenever he chose to resign from active trusteeship. After he sold his home next door to the Museum and relocated to Stonebridge in Skillman, he remained connected to the trustees via email. His dedication to the wellbeing of the institution did not waiver, whether it was envisioning long-term goals or faithfully executing the duties of more practical jobs that he took to heart such as “official light-bulb-changer.” He led by example, and his care for the organization and the Museum facility was meticulous and consistent.

Befitting David’s career as a teacher, his management of the Museum advanced the edification of thousands of visitors, from young children to the town’s most senior citizens; from his own neighbors to the international diaspora of Hopewell-area families. His tireless efforts ensured the preservation of Hopewell Valley’s documentary heritage and material culture, and fostered the celebration and exploration of local and regional history. David also exhibited a spirit of collegiality with other organizations and local government, welcoming opportunities for cooperation and concerted efforts. He was a true gentleman, always conducting himself with respect for—and genuine interest in—those around him.

David’s Legacy

David M. Mackey, esteemed past president of The Hopewell Museum, passed away on May 23, 2023 at Skillman, N.J., aged 89 years. His life journey was one of service and selflessness, and his impact on those around him and the communities in which he worked and lived was immeasurable. The people of Hopewell Valley and his compatriots at The Hopewell Museum will affectionately remember him as a guiding light and friend. Even in his estate planning, he continued his faithful support of our institution in a generous and significant way. We will miss him!

David leaves behind his brother- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, their children, and many admiring former students and colleagues. He was laid to rest beside his beloved Becky in Highland Cemetery, Hopewell.