Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Barry MacTaggart, beloved husband of Robin for 63 years; devoted father to Susan and her husband Ted, Ian and his wife Chrissy, and Cameron; and proud grandfather to eight beautiful grandchildren, passed away peacefully at home in Vero Beach, Florida, on April 17th, leaving a legacy of devoted family life and global leadership.
Born in 1931 in Kandos, Australia, to Malcolm and Dorothy MacTaggart, Barry’s remarkable journey took him from a small cement mining town of fewer than 650 people to the pinnacle of the international business world. He was at the forefront of negotiations to open the Soviet Union to international trade, alongside many other landmark global agreements.
A Chartered Accountant by training, Barry began his career in Australia before joining the up-and- coming pharmaceutical company Pfizer Inc. in 1958 and relocating to Hong Kong. Over a distinguished 32-year international career, Barry was based in Hong Kong (twice), Japan, and Australia, eventually moving to the company’s corporate headquarters in New York in 1972.
In 1981, Barry was named Chairman and President of Pfizer International and served on Pfizer Inc.’s Board of Directors. He retired from those positions in 1991. Described as “quietly determined” in his retirement tribute, he was known for his decisive leadership, his ability to listen, his strong ethics, and his collaborative approach. His contributions to the protection of global intellectual property were recognized by the King of Belgium, who named him an Officer of the Crown with the formal approval of the Queen of England.
In 1962, while in Hong Kong, Barry met a fellow Australian and the love of his life, Robin Wilson. Following his retirement in 1991, Barry and Robin moved from Greenwich, Connecticut, where they raised their children, to John’s Island in Vero Beach, Florida. There, Barry remained active in the community, serving for a time as President of the John’s Island Property Owners’ Association.
An adventurer at heart, Barry had a passion for reading, Beefeater martinis, hill climb car racing, and the open water, not necessarily in that order. He and a group of friends were active in the Sydney car community and founded the North Shore Sporting Car Club in Sydney, Australia. Barry and Robin spent many happy years cruising the waters of Hong Kong, Long Island Sound, Florida, and the Bahamas, a reflection of his lifelong love of the sea. Above all, Barry cherished his time with Robin and loved hosting family gatherings at their homes in John’s Island and Nantucket. He received great joy and energy watching his grandchildren grow into fine young adults.
Barry is survived by his beloved wife, Robin; their children and families: Susan and Ted Saraceno, Ian and Chrissy MacTaggart, and Cameron MacTaggart; and his eight grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Papa”: Alie, Krissy, Kurt, Emma (Eric), Kelli (Jackson), Annabelle, Hannah, and Molly. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Baker of Australia, and was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Sandy and Don.
The family is grateful for the extraordinary care given to Barry by his caregivers.
A private burial is planned.
Our caring professionals are here to assist you and your family during this difficult time. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist in immediate arrangements or pre-arrangements.
Leanne MacTaggart
April 22, 2026, 8:20 am
Robin and family, sending lots of love and condolences . Much love Leanne and family xxx