Eric Niles McKay

Eric Niles McKay, 59, passed away peacefully April 23, 2023 surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. He was born December 18, 1963 in Seattle, WA, the son of John Edwin McKay and Eleanor Anderson McKay. Eric spent his childhood in Washington, California, and Nevada, then served in United States Navy. Eventually, Eric moved to Florida where he met his wife, Donna of 28 years. Together they moved to New Orleans, where Eric graduated from Tulane University School of Law.

Beloved father, husband, son, and brother, Eric is survived by his wife Donna and four children: Kory, Andren, Axel and Ava Jane McKay; Grandsons, Edon and Azrael. He will be dearly missed by his sister Betsy Diedrick (Mike), sister Sandra Mendez and brother Kurt; aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews, along with his many cousins spanning the Pacific Northwest to Ireland. Eric was predeceased by his father John Edwin McKay, and mother Eleanor Anderson McKay and his sister, Colette.

Eric's legacy will be deeply rooted in the love he has for his four children, his family as well the friendships nurtured throughout his life. Eric always kept his children laughing with his silly jokes, and the rest of us entertained with his witty sense of humor. He loved early morning walks, playing guitar, creating innovative recipes with his children, and the Seattle Seahawks. He was an avid reader, his curiosity for knowledge never wavering. He was a black belt jujitsu instructor and a gifted musician; he beat to his own drum and made no excuses.

Eric had a kind and generous heart and was known to do legal work for his friends free of charge, as well as other pro bono work including the Litem Foundation for Children. He had a deep love and respect for the law and enjoyed helping and teaching anyone expressing an interest.

Before practicing law, Eric's career was in Golf Club Management and Hospitality. Hospitality is a word that stuck with Eric throughout his life. He was always looking to create the best possible experience with his friends and loved ones. Whether selecting a stellar bottle of wine, cooking a 5-star meal, or organizing an event, Eric's passion for giving others an awesome experience never dwindled.

A Celtic McKay celebration in Seattle is planned for this summer. In lieu of gifts or flowers, Eric requested memorial contributions be made to the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation for Children or Zarephath Academy of Jacksonville.