Opal Joseph Malone Jr.

Opal Joseph Malone Jr., affectionately known as "Joe" and lovingly called Pops, Miyagi, and Deacon by his children, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024, surrounded by family in Keller, Texas.

Joe was born on November 12, 1941, in Leeds, a segregated neighborhood of Kansas City, Missouri, to Janie Lucille Malone and Opal Joseph Malone Sr. He attended Dunbar Elementary School from kindergarten through the seventh grade before continuing his education at Central Junior and Senior High School.

The middle child of 12 siblings, Joe shared his early years with Maxine Lewis, Walter Lowe, Laura Melba Briggs, Samuel Malone, Betty Jean Donahue, Mertha Lee Gordon, Raymond Malone, Barbara Ann Eteir, Forrestine House, Jerry Malone, and Gary Gene Malone. 

From a young age, Joe was an avid reader, often choosing books over playtime. This intellectual curiosity and desire for greater horizons inspired him to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served as a cook from 1959 to 1963 while stationed in Germany.

Following his military service, Joe began a successful career as an insurance agent. His exceptional talent for sales earned him numerous accolades, including awards and bonuses, notably a trip to Hawaii as Salesman of the Year. However, his career journey did not stop there. Joe transitioned into the trades and became a Master Electrician—a prestigious accomplishment, particularly for African Americans in Kansas City during that time. His determination, competitive spirit, and problem-solving skills were evident as he managed large and small projects. A true entrepreneur, Joe established and operated The Electric Company/Nelson Electric, a business he ran with pride until his retirement at the age of 68.

Despite his many professional achievements, Joe's greatest commitment was to his faith. He dedicated his life to Christ and served as a Deacon at Trinity Temple Church of God in Christ. Known for his leadership and wisdom, Joe was also a beloved Men's Sunday School teacher. He lived by the guiding words of Proverbs 27:17: "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."

Joe's legacy lives on through his loving partner of 35 years, Gloria Malone, and his four children: Joenetta Malone, Malcolm Malone (Angela Malone), Kalilah Malone, Joseph Malone. Additionally his step-children, Charletta Rice, Dorian Owens (LaJuan Owens), Darryl Franklin that he raised as his own. Joe is also survived by 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who were a source of immense joy and pride. Joe is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Maxine Lewis, Walter Lowe, Laura Melba Briggs, Babara Ann Eteir, Jerry Malone, and Gary Gene Malone. Joe is also preceded in death by his stepson, Donald Rice.

A celebration of Joe's life will occur on Saturday, December 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Temple COGIC, preceded by a visitation at 10:00 a.m. Joe will be remembered as a devoted family man, a community leader, and a civil rights champion. He taught his children the value of honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for equality and justice for African Americans, leaving them with wisdom that will guide them for future generations.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shown compassion and care during this loss. Joe will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.