Sally Ann Sprout Mallard, a devoted wife, mother, and active community member, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025. Surrounded by her husband, Clayton Mallard, and daughters Jennifer and Gwendolyn, Sally left behind a legacy of love and friendship that touched many lives.
Born on September 8, 1936, to Melba Pauline Savage Sprout and Ralph Edgar Sprout, Sally grew up in Torrance, California. She attended both elementary and high school there, where she met Clayton in the 10th grade at Torrance High School. After two years at Whittier College, the couple married on August 5, 1956, embarking on a 69-year journey filled with family and friendship.
Over the years, Sally and Clayton built a vibrant family life, moving from Atlanta, Georgia, to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before settling in Tustin, California. In 2002, they retired to Fallbrook, California, where they continued to nurture relationships with both new and old friends. Their home became a gathering place, famously hosting the 60th high school reunion for Sally’s class from Torrance High.
Sally’s talents extended beyond her warm hospitality; she excelled in sewing, cooking, baking, and decorating. With a loving heart, she created an environment where family and friends felt cherished. Her commitment to community was evident through her active participation in church and various social activities.
An avid bridge player, Sally taught the game in Iowa and organized neighborhood groups in Tustin. Up until recently, she continued to play at the Fallbrook Senior Center. In addition to her bridge skills, Sally took up tennis in her thirties, enjoying the sport well into her retirement.
Reflecting on her life, Sally once noted that her greatest joys included the births and weddings of her four daughters, as well as the arrival of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished orchestrating family gatherings, particularly holiday dinners, baby showers, and wedding celebrations. A memorable highlight was her 50th wedding anniversary, which brought together her loved ones, including a special visit from Leonora Costales-Cabesa, an Ecuadorian exchange student who lived with the family from 1976 to 1977.
Sally is survived by her husband, Clayton; daughters Rebecca Mallard (Debbie), Gwendolyn Wilson, Jennifer Artunian (Mike), and Cynthia Swift (Larry); as well as grandchildren Spencer, Anastasia, Taylor, Dylan, Amanda, Farren, Nicolette, and Rachel. Her great-grandchildren, Londyn, Pharaoh, and Treasure, along with her sisters Peggy Olivier, Jeannie Beard, and Linda Redderson, and numerous nieces and nephews, also carry on her memory.
A memorial service to celebrate Sally’s life will take place on January 3, 2026, at 11 AM at Christ the King Church in Fallbrook. The community is invited to honor a woman who exemplified kindness, love, and a commitment to bringing people together. Sally Ann Sprout Mallard will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
