Dr. David L. Mallette Sr.

Dr. David Leon Mallette, Sr., departed his earthly life, surrounded by his loving family on Friday March 12, 2010 following a lengthy illness.
He was born on May 30, 1925 to the late Leon Victor and Hattie Cain Mallette. Three brothers preceded him in
death: his twin Charles Mallette, Harold Mallette, Sr. and Nathaniel Mallette; and one sister, Mildred Mallette. He will be remembered by his wife of almost 60 years, Mary Shepard McQueen Mallette; three sons, David Leon, Jr. (Carol), Dr. Julius Quintin (Sharon), and Harold Odyesseus (Andraedese). He has ten grandchildren, James Callaway (Victoria), David Leon Mallette III (Angela), Jenelle Hanes (Jerry), Michele, Quisha, Hershey,
Harolynn, Quintin, Harold, and Heath Mallette. He has seven great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by his sisters, Eula Miller (Melvin), Geraldine Peay, Atty., Jennie Brown (Walter), and Fern Mallette; as well as sisters-in-law, Ruth Mallette and Lou Bertha Manning, brother-in-law, James Howard “Bud” McQueen (Henrietta); and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
His love of family, education and service to the community is a legacy left by Dr. Mallette. He set an example for his family of the importance of spending time together by providing opportunities to gather at the lake and the beach, his favorite places. He embraced three lovely daughters-in-law into the family. He demonstrated a strong love of family by encouraging his children and grandchildren to pursue their passions and interests in life. They will fondly remember the many books he gave them and numerous conversations they had with him about their ambitions. He completed high school at Robeson County Training School, now named R. B. Dean High School. He attended Fayetteville State University for a year before his studies were interrupted by the draft of World War II. He served as a medical corpsman in the U.S. Navy. At the end of his service, Dr. Mallette continued his studies at North Carolina A & T State University where he received a BS degree in Biology and Chemistry and a Master’s Degree in Biology and Education. His love of learning and science enabled him to participate in several science institutes through out the United States. Dr. Mallette earned a PhD in Science Education from North Carolina State University. His professional and religious works and active participation in service organizations demonstrated Dr.
Mallette’s love for the community. Professionally, he was an educator for 47 years at the high school and college levels. He retired from the Department of Public Instruction as the Assistant Director of the Science Division. He later retired from St. Augustine’s College as professor and Chairman of the Biology department. He also served as a science education consultant for Shaw University and Bennett College. Even in his eighties, he advised and tutored many students. His religious beginnings were in the AME Zion church. In his adult life, Dr. Mallette became a member of the Episcopal Church, worshiping at St. Marks in Wilmington, and at St. Ambrose. During his tenure at St. Ambrose, he served on the Laymen’ group, the Vestry and as Senior Warden. Dr. Mallette belonged to many organizations and social clubs. He participated as a member and in leadership positions. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., Guys and Dolls, Les Gents, NC A&T Alumni Association, Blacks United in Government, Parks and Greenway Advisory Board, City of Raleigh Planning Commission, The Passage Home, The Healing Place, Meadowbrook Golf and County Club and the Southeast Raleigh Assembly. Dr. Mallette was also the founding Chairman for the Garner Road YMCA. He was awarded and recognized for his services over the years. He received “The Order of the Long Leaf Pine” by Governor Jim Martin, was a charter member of the Science Wall of Fame, and “Lord of the Year” presented by Top Ladies of Distinction. Dr. Mallette along with his wife are the founders of Nicest Nursery and Child Development Center. Nicest Nursery has served the community by educating children since 1978.
Funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at St. Ambrose Episcopal Church, 813 Darby Street, Raleigh, NC preceded by an 11:45 AM visitation. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to St. Ambrose Episcopal Church, 813 Darby Street, Raleigh, NC 27610.
Arrangements by Haywood Funeral Home, 2415 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, (919) 832-2835
www.haywoodfh.co