Obituaries – Remembering Esteemed Veterinarians
Dr. Leon D. Jenkins
A distinguished veterinarian, Dr. Leon D. Jenkins (Missouri ’62), aged 91, of Lebanon, Missouri, passed away on March 10, 2024. With a career spanning over five decades, Dr. Jenkins began his practice in Marshfield, Missouri, and later served the Lebanon community for 45 years. Renowned for his dedication, he was also the official veterinarian for the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association for 15 years. A proud Navy veteran, Dr. Jenkins leaves behind his wife Connie, two daughters, two sons, a stepson, 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
Dr. Brandon Michael Mallard
Dr. Brandon Michael Mallard (North Carolina State ’15), a vibrant and dedicated veterinarian from Banner Elk, North Carolina, died tragically young at 35 on December 20, 2023. After graduating, he joined the Halifax County Veterinary Center in Virginia. Dr. Mallard’s legacy continues through his surviving family and contributions to veterinary science. Memorial donations can be directed to North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in his memory.
Dr. Arthur Howard Mally
Dr. Arthur Howard Mally (Iowa State ’61), 96, passed away on October 4, 2023, in Lake City, Iowa. His career in veterinary medicine began with the purchase of a clinic in Lake City, expanding to a second practice in Lake View. Retiring in 2015, Dr. Mally was also a dedicated community volunteer and Army veteran. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Contributions in his memory can be made towards a pet memorial garden.
Dr. Jennifer Ann McClain
At 68, Dr. Jennifer Ann McClain (Ohio State ’91) of Olmsted Falls, Ohio, passed on March 5, 2024. Dr. McClain was committed to small animal medicine and shelter medicine in northeast Ohio, recently working with the Friendship Animal Protective League. Her passion for animal welfare survives through her family and memorial contributions to organizations like Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and World Wildlife Fund.
Dr. Jean Laura Meyer
Dr. Jean Laura Meyer (Washington State ’78), 73, of Ridgefield, Washington, died on April 7, 2024. Alongside her husband, Dr. Thomas F. Meyer, she co-founded the Mountain View Veterinary Hospital. A fervent advocate for the human-animal bond, Dr. Meyer’s professional and personal contributions have left a lasting impact on her community. She is survived by her family, including three grandchildren.
Dr. Donald W. Williams
Dr. Donald W. Williams (Ohio State ’70), aged 90, from Eatonton, Georgia, passed away on February 9, 2024. His veterinary career started in Bradenton, Florida, and he was known for his profound commitment to animal health through his practice at Twin Oaks Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Williams, a Navy Reserves veteran, is survived by his wife Barbara, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
These respected professionals dedicated their lives to veterinary medicine and the betterment of animal welfare. Their legacies endure through their families, communities, and the countless animals they cared for.