Dunbar, West Virginia – On September 24, 2024, Harry H. “Mac” McBrayer Jr., a beloved citizen of Dunbar and former resident of Belle and Charleston, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. Surrounded by his loving family, Mac departed this world to enter the presence of the Lord, leaving behind a rich legacy of kindness, community service, and professional excellence. His life, spanning nine decades, profoundly impacted everyone who knew him.
A Life Rooted in Music, Sports, and Community
Mac was born in the 1930s and spent his early years in the small town of Belle, West Virginia, nestled along the Kanawha River. From a young age, Mac’s life was filled with music and sports. His participation in the school band at Belle Elementary and Dupont Junior High sparked a lifelong passion for music. Simultaneously, his athletic abilities, especially in football, flourished. These twin passions—music and sports—helped shape his character and fostered a sense of discipline, teamwork, and joy that guided him throughout his life.
As a teenager, Mac attended Castle Heights Military Academy in Lebanon, Tennessee, where his academic and athletic talents thrived. The academy’s rigorous environment instilled in him the discipline and leadership skills that would serve as the foundation of his later accomplishments. Mac excelled both on the football field and in the classroom, laying the groundwork for his future successes.
A Career in Chemical Engineering
In 1966, Mac achieved a major milestone in his academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Morris Harvey College (now the University of Charleston). This accomplishment marked the beginning of an illustrious career at Occidental Chemical Corporation, where he worked for 43 years. Mac started as a chemical engineer and quickly earned the respect of his peers for his meticulous attention to detail and deep expertise.
Mac’s work at Occidental Chemical culminated in his role as Lab Supervisor, a position he held for many years until his retirement. His leadership was marked by patience and mentorship, always willing to share his knowledge and guide younger engineers. Colleagues admired his generosity and considered him both a mentor and a friend. Mac’s contributions to the company and his impact on those he worked with remain a lasting testament to his character.
Balancing Work with Personal Passions
While Mac’s professional career was significant, his personal life was equally fulfilling. His love for music remained a central part of his life, and he actively participated in local music groups and community events. For Mac, music was not just a hobby—it was a way of connecting with others and expressing the emotions words couldn’t convey.
In addition to his love for music, Mac enjoyed tennis and golf, sports he pursued well into his later years. Whether on the tennis courts or the golf course, Mac was known for his competitive spirit and good humor. His involvement in these activities brought him not only physical health but also deep friendships.
A Family Man and Community Pillar
Mac’s devotion to his family was unwavering. He treasured spending time with his loved ones, whether it was playing sports with his children or enjoying a concert with his wife. His kindness, generosity, and wisdom were evident in every relationship he cultivated, and his family remembers him as a constant source of support and guidance.
In addition to his family, Mac’s presence was felt deeply in the wider community. He was an active participant in local organizations, offering his time and resources to numerous charitable causes. One of Mac’s greatest passions was animal welfare, and he was a dedicated supporter of Dream aWay Cat Rescue, a local non-profit organization that cares for abandoned and stray cats. His contributions to this organization ensured that countless cats received the care they needed. In honor of his memory, Mac’s family has asked for donations to Dream aWay Cat Rescue in lieu of flowers.
Another cause close to Mac’s heart was HospiceCare, which provides compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families. His family has also requested donations to HospiceCare, reflecting Mac’s empathy and concern for those going through difficult times.
A Celebration of Life
To honor Mac’s life, a memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Keller Funeral Home in Dunbar, West Virginia. The service will take place from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., offering family, friends, and community members an opportunity to gather and celebrate the life of a man who brought so much love, joy, and kindness to the world.
As his loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes, they remember not only Mac’s remarkable accomplishments but also the values he embodied—kindness, generosity, and a deep love for family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire future generations.
A Legacy That Lives On
Mac’s passing marks the end of an era for his family, friends, and the communities of Dunbar, Belle, and Charleston. Yet, his memory will remain a lasting presence in their lives. From his contributions as a chemical engineer to his deep involvement in the arts and sports, Mac lived a life full of purpose and love. His legacy is one of integrity, devotion, and kindness, leaving an imprint on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In celebrating Mac’s life, we honor not only his achievements but the spirit of generosity, love, and joy that defined him. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will remain a source of comfort, inspiration, and gratitude for years to come.