A Scottish, English and French surname of Massey comes from the name Matheson and from Massius, which can refer to a gift or one that is great. Variations in spelling Massey include Massie, Macey, Massye and Macy. In England the Massey families originated in Cheshire county and spread into Lancashire and Yorkshire. In Scotland Massey families are primarily in Lanarkshire county. The states of North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, Georgia and South Carolina have the higher numbers of families with the Massey surname. Famous: Brandon Massey (writer of horror stories), Raymond Massey (actor), Mike Massey (professional billiards player), Robert Lee Massey (professional football player), Edith Massey (actress) and Drew Massey (puppeteer).