Sally Ann Sprout Mallard, a cherished figure known for her warmth and community spirit, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Surrounded by her loving husband, Clayton, and their daughters Jennifer and Gwendolyn, Sally’s legacy is one of devotion to family and friends.
Born on September 8, 1936, to Melba Pauline Savage Sprout and Ralph Edgar Sprout, Sally spent her formative years in Torrance, California. She attended both elementary and high school in Torrance, where she met Clayton in the tenth grade. Their bond grew strong, leading to their marriage on August 5, 1956, a union that would last for an impressive 69 years.
Throughout their marriage, Sally and Clayton built a nurturing family life. Sally excelled in a variety of skills, from sewing and cooking to home decoration and hosting gatherings. Her ability to make everyone feel welcome was a hallmark of her character. The couple’s journey took them across several states, including Atlanta, Georgia, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before retiring to Fallbrook, California, in 2002.
Sally’s home in Fallbrook became a gathering place for friends and family. In a testament to her enduring connections, she hosted the 60th high school reunion for the Torrance High School class of 1955 at her residence. Her active participation in church life and her commitment to community made her a beloved figure in her local area.
Sally was not only a devoted mother but also an avid bridge player. She taught the game in Iowa, participated in a neighborhood group in Tustin, and continued to enjoy playing at the Fallbrook Senior Center until recently. Her love for tennis blossomed in her thirties, and she remained active in the sport, forming lasting friendships at the Fallbrook Tennis Club.
The highlights of Sally’s life revolved around her family. She celebrated the births of her four daughters, their weddings, and the arrival of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her ability to bring people together was evident in the many holiday dinners, baby showers, and other gatherings she orchestrated. A particularly memorable occasion was her 50th wedding anniversary, where she reunited with special friends, including Leonora Costales-Cabesa, an Ecuadorian AFS student who had lived with the family during 1976-77.
Sally is survived by her husband, Clayton, and their daughters Rebecca Mallard (Debbie), Gwendolyn Wilson, Jennifer Artunian (Mike), and Cynthia Swift (Larry). She leaves behind a legacy of love, including grandchildren Spencer, Anastasia, Taylor, Dylan, Amanda, Farren, Nicolette, and Rachel, as well as great-grandchildren Londyn, Pharaoh, and Treasure. Her three sisters, Peggy Olivier, Jeannie Beard, and Linda Redderson, along with numerous nieces and nephews, also carry on her memory.
A memorial service will be held on January 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Christ the King Church in Fallbrook, providing an opportunity for family and friends to honor Sally’s vibrant life. Her spirit of generosity and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
