David Stewart McKenzie
David Stewart McKenzie, 82, of Arlington VA, passed away June 20, 2026. Son of Charles Stewart McKenzie and Mary Lee Blaylock, "Dave" as his friends called him was a proud lifelong Washingtonian. He was a man whose life was rooted in family, tradition, community, and the outdoors he loved.
A devoted supporter of Scottish heritage, David was active in the Saint Andrew's Society of Washington, D.C. as the Sergeant at Arms, organizing annual events such as the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk and the Kirkin' of the Tartan. He was also an active member of the Board of Directors for the Council of Scottish Clans and Associations. His most lasting legacy is the Highland Games community where he helped establish highland athletics and Celtic events across the United States. He served as President of the Virginia Scottish Games. He was also an early athletic director who championed women's participation in the heavy athletics, creating opportunities and encouragement for generations of female athletes.
In his professional life, David served in law enforcement for many years including being a K-9 Officer in Calvert County, and a Police Officer at George Washington University. His longest tenure was as a Metropolitan Transit Authority Police Officer, proudly working as a member of the warrant and fugitive squad, helping to make the Metro area a safer place for over 30 years.
He was also a passionate supporter of the military community having graduated from Massanutten Military Academy and having attended The Citadel. He served at Marine Corps Base Quantico as a firearms instructor and range officer. It was this posting that led to one of his lifelong passions being a military historian, whose knowledge and respect for tradition and sacrifice informed much of his life.
Ever the avid outdoor sportsman, David was also a proud member of the Fairfax Rod and Gun Club, and the Safari Club International. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge of both firearms and the history behind them, even being featured on the History Channel.
Whether outdoors, with family, or among friends, David lived with loyalty, generosity, and steady kindness.
He was a devoted partner to Gwen and their beloved cat, Grayson. A loving father to Lisa, Kimberly (Wayde) and Heather (Travis), and a proud grandfather to Steven, Owen, Andrew, Audrey, Olivia, and Lyndsey. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Lynne, his sister-in-law, Mary Ellen, his former spouse, Judith, nieces Robin, Sheila (Paul), his nephew Stewart (Laura) and their families. He is predeceased by his brother Robert, and his parents.
His legacy lives on in all of us fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
Fittingly, David received a private family burial in his beloved Shenandoah Valley at Mossy Creek Presbyterian Church June 29, followed by a public celebration of life later in the summer.
