Elbert Mack, Jr.

Elbert Mack Jr., known affectionately by all as "Mack," passed away peacefully on April 10th at Tribute Black Hill Memory Center in Maryland. He was 83 years old.

Mack’s story began on July 19, 1942, in Arkansas City, Arkansas, born to Ruthie Mae Alford and Elbert Mack Sr. In 1944, he was part of a pivotal family journey when "Big Mama" moved her family to the vibrant streets of Chicago. As the eldest of six children from “Big Mama”, we learned later in life that he had three additional sisters through Ancestry from Elbert Mack Sr.

The year 1960 stood as a landmark in Mack’s life. Fresh out of G.W. Carver High School, he stepped into adulthood with courage and heart: marrying his first love, Marvalene, and enlisting in the United States Navy. He served his country honorably aboard a naval ship until 1966, a time that shaped his disciplined and steady character. With this union 4 children were born, Bud, Jeannie, Rob and Retha.

In 1977 Mack married Elizabeth, produced two more children, Gannon and Ray Ray, and found his calling on the road. He was a man who kept things moving—first behind the wheel for Greyhound, and later as a dedicated driver for the City of Chicago. For 19 years, Mack was a familiar face behind the wheel of his garbage truck, serving his community with a quiet, reliable pride until his well-earned retirement in 2004.

In 1993, Mack married Ersa, although no children were produced through this union, Mack served as a father figure to Ersa’s daughter Angela. In 2015, he relocated to Maryland with Ersa to be closer to her family.

Mack was the father of six children. He has been reunited with his son Gannon (Tomyko), his daughter Sylvia (Wayne) and his wife Ersa. 

Mack leaves behind his siblings and four surviving children: Elbert "Bud" (Annette), Robert (Marie), Sheretha, and Radiant. He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and a vast host of extended family and friends.

He has completed his route, and his work on this Earth is done. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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