RUMFORD – John Martin Malia Jr., 81, passed away peacefully on Nov. 25, 2018, at Rumford Hospital. He was born Feb. 17, 1937 in Portland, to John Martin Malia Sr., and Gladys M. (Sinclair) Malia. He was a 1956 graduate of Portland High School, and after serving at Ft. Ord in Montery, Calif., in the information sector, began his lifelong career in teaching. Graduating from Nasson College in 1967, he started teaching biology that fall at Stephens High School, retiring 32 years later, in 1999, from Mountain Valley High. Upon retirement, “Rocky” and his wife, Julia, ran a successful science kit business. Rocky and Julia Clayton married in 1963, in Portland, and enjoyed 52 years together, before her death in 2015.

He enjoyed running into former students, some which still remember his standing back flip, (that he may or may not have actually done), but the common theme was respect, humour, and fairness. He was able to see his influence in the many students that continued to pursue their lives in the sciences and photography. He was a quiet man and a class act; loved good jazz, late night discussions about the universe, and a good steak.

He is survived by his daughter Janet A. Malia-Descoteaux, spouse David; son Patrick H. Malia; sister, Carol A. Malia; grandchildren, Danielle and John Descoteaux; brother-in-law, Charles Kirk, sisters-in-law, Shirley Anyan and Barbara Clayton; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; wife, Julia; sister, Shirley M. Kirk; brothers-in-law, Don Clayton, James Clayton, and Glen Anyan.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the family by visiting their guestbook at www.sgthibaultfuneralhome.com.

A time of sharing and remembering will be held from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday December 9, at S.G. Thibault Funeral Home. Spring interment will be in Demeritt Cemetery in Peru.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of S.G. Thibault Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services 250 Penobscot St. Rumford ME 04276. 364-4366www.sgthibaultfuneralhome.com

If so desired, contributions in John’s memory

may be made to:

St. Jude Children’s

Research Hospital,

501 St. Jude Place,

Memphis, TN 38105