Arthur Lee Mallory

Arthur L. Mallory, age 92, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away at 6:17 pm, Thursday, November 20, 2025 while being graciously served by Springfield Mercy Hospital team members.

It would be an understatement to say that Arthur loved people. He took very seriously Jesus' commandment to love our Heavenly Father, and to love one another. Arthur never knew a stranger and always had time for those who needed something. He took great joy in serving others, standing with others and recognizing the right thing to do.

He acted on those good and right things through many associations, memberships and organizations. Pages could be filled describing his professional accomplishments and accolades. When you asked Arthur what he did, he would say, "I'm a teacher." Other than his family, his greatest love was expressed through teaching. Whether in a Sunday School, a public school, a college, a board meeting, a committee meeting, a legislative session, or any number of state and national level activities, Arthur loved teaching. He also loved his church, honored his pastors, served his country, loved his jobs and loved his many, many friends.

Certainly, his greatest earthly joy was family. A special 71-year engagement with his wife Joann still goes on. He adored his children Jennifer Spears, Stephanie Brown, Chris Mallory, and Dennis Mallory (deceased). His sons- and daughters-in-law were special to him. Greg Spears, Randy Brown (deceased), Pam Mallory, and Cindy Green held a special place in his heart.

Surpassing adoration, Arthur's love for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren could be described as epic. Grandchildren Cristina Spears, Stephen Brown, Dan Spears, Mallory Hunter, Sam Spears, Paul Spears, James Spears, Tyler Mallory and Jason Mallory have given Arthur so much joy over the last 43 years. Arthur's great-grandchildren have given him great pleasure and filled the last 13 years of his life with laughter and fun. Simon, Airlee, Wilder, Collette, Willa, Walter, Westlan, Voy, Randy, Evie, Palmer, Tanner, and Edward Arthur are such a gift for Arthur.

Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, Dillard and Ferrell Mallory, his in-laws, Jim and Juanita Peters (all of Buffalo, Missouri) and his oldest son, Dennis, who met his Savior just before turning 23. He is survived by his loving sister, Kathryn Richardson, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

His family is thankful for Arthur's life, his love and his care. The greatest thanks and joy is held high because of Arthur's special love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A gift that teacher Arthur would remind us is available to all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Springfield.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM, with service following at 11:00 AM, at First Baptist Church of Springfield. Graveside Service will be at 2:30 PM in Memorial Gardens of Memory in Buffalo, MO.