Andrew “AJ” James Malone, a 26-year-old resident of Dempseytown, Pennsylvania, died following a motor vehicle accident on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, according to his obituary.
Born on Sept. 11, 1999, at Franklin Hospital, AJ was the son of Perry Malone and Brenda Fike Malone. He was known for his outgoing personality, dedication to family, and passion for sports and the outdoors.
Malone graduated from Oil City High School in 2018, where he completed the Automotive Technology program through the school’s vocational education program. During his time at Oil City High, he was a member of the Oilers football team and proudly embraced the nickname “Big Ugly,” a title he often joked reflected his determination and physical style of play on the field.
Outside of work, AJ enjoyed spending time golfing, fishing, and hunting, particularly alongside his brothers, Charles “CJ” Malone and Jeffrey “JR” McCool Jr., as well as his nephew, Mark “MJ” Groger. Family members said those outdoor adventures often ended with memorable stories and laughter. Known for his quick wit, AJ was always ready with a joke, often teasing his sister, Nicole, in good fun.
At the time of his death, Malone was employed as a corrections officer at SCI Marienville. He had previously worked for Hedgedus Aluminum, Franklin Industries, and JM Eagle.
He is survived by his parents, Brenda Fike McCool and her husband, Jeff McCool Sr., and Perry Malone and his wife, Kathy Speer Malone; his siblings, Nicole Malone Hosier, Charles “CJ” Malone, Christi Culver, Heather McCool, and Jeffrey McCool Jr.; several nephews and a niece; his maternal grandmother, Ann Fike; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Willard Fike, Ronald and Sandra Umstead; his paternal grandparents, Robert and Kitty Malone; and several other relatives.
In their obituary tribute, AJ’s family expressed heartfelt appreciation to the first responders and everyone who assisted at the scene of the fatal accident, thanking them for their care and support during an incredibly difficult time.
A memorial service honoring Andrew “AJ” James Malone’s life is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, at Baptist Temple of Franklin, located at 4777 Old Route 8 in Polk, Pennsylvania. Pastor David Foote will officiate the service as family, friends, and loved ones gather to celebrate AJ’s life and lasting memory.
