Read John Lee Maloney's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

John Lee Maloney

Sheridan, WY

February 8, 1949 - February 16, 1983

Feb 8, 1949 - Feb 16, 1983

Help keep everyone in the know by sharing this memorial website.

Share

Photo

In loving memory of Sargent John Lee Maloney. John, 34 passed away at his Sheridan, Wyoming home on February 16,1983. John will always be remembered for his courage during difficult times. Unfortunately, this time the pain was too difficult, and John died by suicide, far too early for a man as beloved as him.

John was born on February 8, 1949 in Terra Haute, Indiana to his parents Elbert and Dorothy Maloney. The family moved to Sheridan,WY when he was in elementary school. He was the eldest of 5 children, followed by Ron, Deana (Campbell), Tim, and Cheryl. John attended Sheridan High School and earned his GED.

When John was just 19 years old, John joined the U.S. Army in May of 1968. John served in the Vietnam War from October 1968-October 1969 where he earned the rank of Sargent and multiple service awards; National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, Vietnam Combat Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge.

After his Honorable Discharge, John returned to his hometown of Sheridan to settle in the town. John worked at a variety of places such as Cablevision, Prill Brothers, construction companies, and Decker Coal.

When he wasn’t working, John had a passion for hunting, camping, and spending time outdoors with friends. He was also an avid dart ball player on the Budweiser league that was sponsored by Big Horn Beverage.

John wedded Amber Dowdell in 1977 and welcomed their daughter, Ashley Maloney, in October of 1980. His daughter has heard from many sources that she meant more to him than anything else in the world, and pictures capturing his endearing affection can be sensed through his eyes and his smile throughout the short 2 ½ years they had together on earth.

John's parents, Elbert and Dot Maloney, and brother Ron have since passed away. Immediate surviving family members include his daughter, Ashley Maloney of Denver (husband, Tony and daughter, Eliana); former wife Amber Maloney (Dennis); sisters Deana (Ken) and Cheryl (Jon); brother Tim (Susie); and multiple nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.