Galloway News. March 5th 1938.
Many friends in Kirkcudbright learned with deep regret of the death of Mr Basil Mackenzie, principal keeper at the Ross Lighthouse, which took place in Kirkcudbright Cottage Hospital at an early hour on Monday Morning. Deceased, who was a brother of ex-Provost William Mackenzie, Kirkcudbright, belonged to an old Kirkcudbright family who were at one time prominent shipbuilders in the town. This business which was at one time a flourishing industry in the town, was carried on by two brothers, Homer & James Campbell, the former being the grandfather of deceased. They came from Cumberland, their place of business being on the Moat Brae, and from there they launched not a few vessels, probably the best known being the schooner Lynch. Mr Mackenzie was the youngest son of the late Mr William Mackenzie, who was a well-known pilot on the Dee, and relief boatman to the Ross Lighthouse.
Before entering the service of the Northern Lights Commissioners he served his apprenticeship as a joiner with the late Mr James Campbell, and during his long service he was stationed at various lighthouses round the coast of Scotland, including the lonely Skerryvore and other lighthouses in the Outer Hebrides. It was only in November last that he was transferred to the Ross Lighthouse, when he renewed acquaintance with his old Kirkcudbright friends. Fifty-six years of age, he is survived by Mrs Mackenzie, and a family of three sons and one daughter.
The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon to St Cuthbert’s Churchyard and was largely attended.