Obituary of Mala Washington

Mala Lange Washington, of Malvern and Wallingford, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Wednesday, April 9, 2025. She was 62 years old.

Mala was a loving, funny, and inspiring woman whose warmth touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. A devoted daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and “pet mom” to her beloved Great Dane, Xena, Mala lived a life marked by resilience, humor, and unwavering kindness.

For over 20 years, Mala dedicated herself to the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, working as a supervisor in the Supervision, Regulation, and Credit department for the Treasury. After her early retirement, she brought her sharp financial skills and passion for service to the Pennsylvania State Bookstore in Malvern, Pa. where she lived for nearly three decades. There, at Penn State, she led initiatives to improve book ordering and distribution processes, supporting hundreds of students and faculty.

Mala’s professional journey did not stop there. She found joy and community in her third career as an auditor at the Residence Inn in Valley Forge for Marriott Corporation. She cherished the camaraderie of her coworkers and the chance to offer hospitality and kindness to travelers from across the country.

An avid animal lover, Mala was a long-time member of the American Kennel Club and a dedicated Great Dane enthusiast, having raised and cared for more than nine of these gentle giants throughout her life. Her latest furry companion, Xena, remained a constant source of comfort and joy.

Beyond her professional and personal pursuits, Mala was known for her passion for good food, good friends, and good conversation. A self-described foodie, she was particularly fond of dining at Davio’s, and those who knew her well could attest to her discerning palate and generous spirit.

Committed to lifelong learning, Mala earned her associate’s degree from Philadelphia University (now part of Jefferson) and after returning to school several years ago, was close to completing her bachelor’s degree in business and accounting — a testament to her restless intellect and persistent drive.

Mala was the beloved daughter of her late parents Emory W. Washington, Sr., and Dolores D. Gooden Washington. She was preceded in death by her brothers Lance Gooden Washington and Darien Anthony. She is survived by her brother Emory W. Washington, Jr.; sister Diane Washington; brother-in-law Edward Arthur; nephews Isaiah and Benjamin Washington; sister-in-law Bonny; and lots of loving cousins, dear friends, and friends who she always referred to as chosen family who brought light to her life, as she did to theirs.

Mala will be remembered for her infectious laugh, generous heart, sharp wit, and the fierce loyalty she showed to those she loved. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, kindness, and a life well-lived.

Visitation: Thursday, April 17th  after 10:30AM at the Minshall Shropshire-Bleyler Funeral Home, Middletown (Rte. #352) & Knowlton Rds., Middletown Twp., Media, PA 19063.

Graveside Service:  Philadelphia Memorial Park, Frazer, PA.

Mala will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.