Ted Lewis Mackey

Ted Mackey, age 84, Clint Eastwood look-alike and master of the handstand challenge, signed off after his last chicken piccata on August 16, 2024. He leaves behind his dazzling wife, Pam, daughter Roxy, and sister Sylvia, who will no doubt carry on his legacy of wit, wisdom, and a well-timed Seinfeld quote.

Raised on the "mean streets" of Venice, California. It was here that he developed his love for antique lowriders, becoming an advocate collector and the proud owner of more than a few pieces of rolling history. When stress hit, Ted didn’t just hit back—he challenged you to a pull-up contest at Muscle Beach. Spoiler alert: Ted always won.

Ted had a lifelong love affair with the law. After earning his Bachelor of Law from Blackstone School of Law, he didn’t stop there. He went on to snag a Doctor of Law from California College of Law and a Juris Doctor from Southwestern University and even served as a judge. If there was a law degree to be had, Ted got it. His dedication to justice earned him a spot in the Themis Society for Advanced Legal Education and Justice—a title he wore with pride, right next to the cleverly placed “Yada, Yada, Yadda” Seinfeld quote when that part of the story just didn’t need to be told.

But Ted’s life wasn’t all about law and order. One of his favorite pastimes was tearing through the streets of New Orleans on bikes with “Pammy”, his soulmate and partner in every adventure. Whether they were dashing down Royal Street or making their way to the next best coffee shop in the French Quarter, Ted and Pam brought their own brand of excitement wherever they went.

Serving in the United States Air Force? Check. Building an empire of law offices, hotels, a chapel, and even a graveyard? Check, check, and double-check. Ted was the guy who could dive deep into discussions about law, real estate, or why Larry David was the most misunderstood genius on television.

He also had a habit of scribbling updates to buildings and plans on anything within reach—so much so that we’re pretty sure some coffee shops in town still bear his many ideas. Ted’s dog, Memo, was his loyal sidekick, always by his side during their many strolls through Harbor Town. Together, they were as beloved as the best brew in town, with Ted dishing out wisdom, humor, and perhaps a few more architecture updates along the way.

Ted Mackey was a man of intellect, humor, and heart—a true original. He will be missed dearly, but his legend lives on in the laughter he sparked, the wisdom he shared, and the many lives he touched. And if you ever find yourself in Harbor Town, just look for the guy with the best stories, the sharpest suit, and maybe a few creative ideas to spare—that’s the spirit of Ted, still working the room.

And by the way, we hope he doesn't read this and claims "They need to go back to obituary writing school”.