Richard Malott

Richard Dean Malott, 71, of Trimble, MO passed away February 20, 2025.

He was born on August 8, 1953, to Byron “Dumpy” and Mary (Seuell) Malott in Leavenworth, KS. Richard grew up in Trimble, MO where he participated in Boy Scouts. Later the family moved to Smithville, MO and in 1971, he graduated from Smithville High School. While in high school, Richard was an excellent football player and was named all state linebacker. After high school, he worked for Kay Furniture in Smithville for many years and later owned M & O remodeling until his retirement.

At an early age Richard acquired a passion for playing music and spent time with many bands throughout the years. For the last 25+ years he found a love for bluegrass. Richard brought hours of joy to many people by sharing his love of music and incredible talent. He played at Holton, Winfield, Prater’s, Lathrop, HABOT, Pomona, Sally Mountain and countless festivals and stage shows. His hours of teaching and playing cannot even be counted. Neighbors loved to hear him playing on his back deck. His empty chair will leave a massive hole in many hearts at every jam circle.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dumpy Malott and Mary Malott Foster and his sisters Linda Pruitt and Judy Gilbride.

Richard is survived by his sister Cindy (Tony) McMackin; nieces and nephews Jim (Lisa) Pruitt, Brandi Kessinger, Liberty Baker, Heather Gilbride, Tyler (Chelsea) VanSickle, Chandler (Christina) VanSickle and Falon (Eric) Wagner; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. He also leaves behind a legacy of music friends.

The family would like to give a special thanks to his bluegrass friends Jim and Christina Wark, Sandi McClary, David Alden, and longtime childhood friend Gary Murphy for their support and assistance.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Saturday, March 29th at The Trimble Community Center, 101 South 4th Street, Trimble, MO 64492.
Everyone is welcome to come to a Bluegrass Jam Session before the visitation starting around 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s memory c/o Cindy McMackin.