Ronald McKenzie

Ronald Whitfield McKenzie was born on January 25, 1933, in Adelphi, St. James, Jamaica, West Indies. A beloved son of Lucille Sylvia English (née Brown) and Rupert McKenzie, his journey through life was one marked by deep faith, relentless drive, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of his family and those around him. His early education at Adelphi Primary School laid the foundation for a life lived with purpose, discipline, and a profound sense of responsibility. In 1948, he relocated to Kingston, Jamaica, where he enrolled in Waulgrove College, a private high school, where he completed secondary education and graduated with his Senior Cambridge School Certificate.

His professional journey was as global as it was purposeful. He began his career in Jamaica with the Civil Service before migrating to Washington, DC, to pursue higher education. At Howard University, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1963. A year later, he married Jean Leomine Lewis (he was her devoted husband until her death in 2004). Together they traveled to Nigeria, where he used his engineering expertise to make a meaningful impact. By 1967, they had returned to Jamaica, where he continued his career with Seprod Company and the National Water Authority.

When political unrest escalated in the 1970s, he made the difficult decision to relocate his family to the United States. In 1978, he settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where he worked for several consulting firms before stepping boldly into entrepreneurship. His work ethic was unmatched, embodying qualities that made him a respected and reliable figure in every undertaking. For half a decade he owned and operated a Dairy Queen franchise; he eventually expanded his portfolio to include real estate investment and property management endeavors.

In 2004 he married the former Ivy Elaine Windross, with whom he built a loving life in Decatur, Georgia. He found joy in simple pleasures. He loved Christmas, a holiday that reflected his warmth, generosity, and commitment to family. Around the domino table, he was known for his playful competitiveness, while at family gatherings, his smoked turkey was a signature dish eagerly anticipated by all.

Ronald Whitfield McKenzie IS a beloved patriarch, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, civil servant, entrepreneur, and friend. He transitioned from this life to eternal joy and peace on Saturday, August 30, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille Sylvia English and Rupert McKenzie; and his siblings, Eveline (Arthur) Rose and Sonny McKenzie.

Though his professional achievements and personal milestones spanned continents and decades, he will be most remembered for his devotion to family, his entrepreneurial courage, and his ability to create a home filled with love. When we think of him, let’s remember the zeal with which he lived for 92 years. Think of him at Thanksgiving and Christmas as these times were filled with family, laughter, and the aroma of his signature smoked turkey. When we think of him, let’s remember his devotion to family and friends. Think of him whenever you see the color yellow glistening, reflecting his brightness and his optimism. When we think of him, let’s remember that while his trailblazing spirit took him around, he always held Jamaica in his heart.

His memory will be cherished by his wife, Ivy Elaine Windross McKenzie; and his siblings, Hessel Mckenzie, Alvera (Vee) Mckenzie, and Ruby Mckenzie. His legacy will be sustained by his son, Wayne R. (Yakima Rhinehart) McKenzie; and by his grandsons, Jair McKenzie and Jean-Christian McKenzie. Others who count it a blessing to have known him are his in-laws, his nieces, nephews, their spouses, and their children; his cousins, their spouses, and their children; his circle of extended family; members of the Atlanta Jamaica Association; and a host of friends and loved ones.

Obituary written by Rev. Dr. Tony Lamair Burks II, member The Society of Professional Obituary Writers