Francis J. Mallon, Jr.

Francis Joseph Mallon, Jr. entered into eternal rest on August 16, 2023 in Rockville, MD.  He leaves behind his loving wife Barbara of 53 years, his daughter Colleen Schrier (Jamey) of Rockville, MD and his son Danny Mallon (Beth) of Zionsville, IN and four grandchildren: Jack Schrier, Gracie Schrier, Betsy Mallon and Kate Mallon.

He was born on April 21, 1938 to Francis Joseph and Marie Dorsey Mallon.  He was the only child and affectionately called Reds, due to his distinct Irish red hair.  He fondly recalled his childhood in the Tacony neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia under one roof with his mom, dad, aunts and uncles and cousin.  He attended St. Leo’s Catholic Elementary School and graduated high school from St. Joe's Prep.  He played one year of basketball at St. Joseph’s University before entering the Society of Jesus. He earned two bachelor's degrees, one master'sdegree and built life-long friendships through the 11 years with the Jesuits.  He spent four of those years, from 1964-1968,teaching and coaching at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC, which cemented his commitment to social justice, community service, and selfless leadership.  In 1968 Frank prayerfully left the Jesuits and the following year married Barbara and pursued a law degree at Georgetown University. Much of his career was spent in professional relations and executive leadership roles that culminated in 26 years with the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), where he spent the last 13 years as CEO.  He led the association to some of its greatest achievements and his leadership style is remembered as people-focused, facilitated with humility and a great sense of humor.  Upon retirement from APTA, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, the city mayor declared June 14, 2007 “Frank Mallon Day”.

He embodied St. Ignatius Loyola’s philosophy of "Men for Others".  Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was passionate about his faith, family and giving his time to the community.  He coached St. Bernadette’s CYO girls’ basketball teams, served on the Boards of the Literacy Council of Montgomery County, Manor Country Club and was a long-time supporter of the Washington Jesuit Academy. He looked forward to summer family vacations at the “shore” (not the beach!).  He loved all sports, especially his Georgetown Hoyas and Washington Redskins.  He was a voracious reader, crossword enthusiast and found the game of Scrabble relaxing.  Frank enjoyed a good Manhattan, an occasional cigar and always had an engaging story to tell. 

A Funeral mass will be held on Friday August 25, 2023 at 10am at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 917 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Frank’s name may be made to either:

Washington Jesuit Academy: online at www.wjacademy.org or checks may be mailed to: Washington Jesuit Academy, c/o Advancement Office, 900 Varnum Street NE, Washington, DC 20017

SOME (So Others Might Eat): online at www.some.org/donate or checks may be mailed to: SOME, 71 O St NW, Washington, DC 20001