Francis "Frank" William Malinowski

Francis William Malinowski, 92, of Athens, GA died on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. The son of Wladyslaw and Stanislawa Malinowski, Frank was born October 4, 1931 in Jamaica, NY.

Frank was a first generation American born to Polish immigrants. He graduated from John Adams High School. Following high school, he attended the Merchant Marine Academy for one year. He was then recruited by the University of Georgia and came to Athens on a football scholarship in 1950. He was a three-year starter and letterman. While in school, he also took part in Army ROTC. He met his future wife, Martha Saye, at UGA, and the two were married at St. Joseph Catholic Church on June 5, 1954. Following his graduation in December 1954, the newlyweds moved to Ft. Knox, KY to fulfill his obligations to the U.S. Army.

Returning to the Athens area, Frank began a long, rewarding career as an educator. From Thompson H.S. to Oglethorpe H.S. to Athens H.S., he was a beloved teacher and coach. He maintained strong friendships with many former students and colleagues. He later became principal of Winterville Elementary, Barnett Shoals Elementary, and Clarke Central High School. While giving his all to his schools, he still managed to attain several advanced degrees and raise 4 daughters. He retired from the Clarke County School District in 1987.

After retirement, Frank enjoyed spending time with his growing family. Sports remained a huge interest with UGA being his favorite. He was an avid reader with a diverse library of favorite books. A week at the beach with the whole family was an annual highlight. Frank was an active member of the local Knights of Columbus organization and had achieved the rank of Grand Knight. He was a proud member of the UGA Football Letterman’s Club and was one of “Wally’s Boys.” Frank epitomizes what it means to be a “DGD”! In 2013, he was inducted into the Athens Athletic Hall of Fame for his countless contributions to the community as an educator. That same year he was inducted into the National Football Foundation College Hall of Fame. In 2017 he received the John Rauch Loyalty Award.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his sister, Gladys M. Matlach, brother Felix Malinowski, and his loving wife of 54 years, Martha Saye Malinowski.

He is survived by his four devoted daughters: Laura M. Freeman (Larry), Kathy M. Lingenfelser (George), Ellie M. DeSa (Derek), and JoAnne M. Shaw (Steve); grandchildren: Alex Freeman (Rachel), Chelsea Kilpatrick (Matt), Charlee Thaxton (Patrick), and Matthew Lingenfelser; great-grandchildren: Ayla and Wyatt Freeman, Clayton and Maddox Kilpatrick, and Ava and Oliver Thaxton; and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, December 23 at the Catholic Center at the University of Georgia at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow the service at Athens Memory Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made to the Catholic Center at the University of Georgia, 1344 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30605.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com