Barbara Ann Mackey

Barbara Ann Mackey, 86, of Olin, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at Anamosa Care Center.

Barbara was born on March 13, 1939, in Wyoming, Iowa, the daughter of Lumir and Ruby (Carl) Holub. She was united in marriage to Donald Mackey on January 19, 1958, at the Wyoming Methodist Church. Donald preceded her in death in 2012. Together, they shared many years of hard work, family, and community life.

Barbara was known by many as the “Avon Lady” for years, a role she truly enjoyed and through which she formed many lasting friendships. Earlier in life, she worked for Avon for many years, excelling in her career and becoming a district manager in northeast Iowa. After moving back to the Olin area in 1972 to help care for Grandma Mackey, Barbara and Donald built and operated Big Mack’s Drive-In, which became a family affair. They purchased and ran a Standard Oil gas station, further rooting their family in the community. In her later years, Barbara also enjoyed selling Home Interiors.

Barbara cherished her coffee-clutch friends, where time spent together was about far more than just coffee—it was about laughter, connection, and friendship. She was a natural homemaker who loved to cook, though she was known for never following a recipe and doing things her own way. When Barbara wasn’t cooking, she enjoyed watching her beloved Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes.

Above all else, Barbara’s greatest joy was her family. She lovingly raised seven children with Donald’s help and took immense pride in watching her family grow through the years. She delighted in her grandchildren and was especially proud to welcome great-grandchildren into the family.

Barbara is survived by her children: Jim Mackey, Jacki (Jim) Luckstead, Jeri Hartl, Jeff (Carrie) Mackey, Mike (Jill) Mackey, Michelle (Jeff Dvorak) Mackey, and Jo Merrick; along with many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Also, survived by her sisters: Nancy Doering, Connie (John) Burhop, Melody Nelms, and Bonnie Swick.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lumir and Ruby Holub, and her husband, Donald Mackey.

A visitation will be held Sunday, March 1, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Dawson Funeral Services in Olin. Funeral services will take place March 2 at 11:00 a.m. at the Olin Community United Methodist Church. A private family burial will be held at the Olin Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

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