ST. CROIX — John “Big Beard” Macy, a legendary St. Croix captain and wedding officiant who founded Big Beard’s Adventure Tours, has died at age 80.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of John Macy, Captain Big Beard,” read a post written today on Big Beard’s Adventure Tours Facebook page. “John was the founder of Big Beard’s Adventure Tours and a fixture of the St. Croix community since he moved to the island in 1979.”
The statement noted that Macy died peacefully at the age of 80 in his home on the island after a decade-long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
“He will be remembered for the countless lives he touched while sharing the magic of Buck Island on his tours, and by the upwards of one thousand couples whose weddings he officiated,” the statement added. “Details of the celebration of life will be shared soon. In the meantime, please feel free to share your memories and photographs as we remember his extraordinary life.”
More than 350 people who knew Macy, got married by him, or took a trip to Buck Island on one of the vessels he captained shared their stories under the post and offered condolences. Numerous commentors posted photos of Macy officiating their weddings, while others shared photos with him on a vessel or on the boardwalk. “Legend” and “icon” were two commonly used words to describe him.
Jack Doud, of Arizona, wrote about the impact Macy had on the island.
“This man’s impact on St. Croix can’t be understated... my wife and I only lived on STX for a year but everyone we knew, knew of and respected John without question... he’s a true legend,” he wrote.
Dwight Mike Cartier, a St. Croix native, wrote that Macy was truly one of a kind.
“His love for St. Croix, Buck Island, and the people he served touched generations, and his impact will live on through the countless memories, stories, and unions he helped create,” he wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Big Beard’s Adventure Tours family. May his spirit continue to sail these waters he loved so dearly, and may he rest peacefully knowing how deeply he will be missed.”
Abdallah Salamah, a Crucian who lives in Houston, commented on Macy’s connection to the sea.
“May his soul journey peacefully,” he wrote. “He was the Patriarch of the seas in our island community. His Jolly disposition and commitment to the salt life will surely be missed.”
Brooke Cook, who lives in Christiansted, commented on Macy’s personality.
“John was such a kind man,” she wrote. “An amazing legacy he leaves behind. Hugs to the family as they mourn.”
Carol Gostonczik Greco, a Christiansted resident, also commented on the type of person Macy was.
“Such a legend we have lost,” she wrote. “A kind, gentle, strong, witty, intelligent, handsome, wonderful human being. Sad.”
