Penny Lynn McCullough Malanca

Penny Lynn McCullough Malanca, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on February 7, 2026, at The California Armenian Home in Fresno, California. She had recently celebrated her 64th birthday on January 25, 2026. Penny grew up in Dos Palos, California, where her love for people, learning, and community first took root. She devoted 27 years of her life to education, teaching 4th grade, 6th grade, and junior high Algebra in Mendota, California. A longtime educator and passionate cheer coach, Penny always went the extra mile for her students—picking up overtime hours, afterschool programs, and winter sessions to ensure every child felt supported and capable. She had a special gift for sharing her love of math and making it feel less intimidating for students who struggled, empowering them to believe in themselves. She was highly recognized in education and received teacher of the year for Fresno County in 2012. Her dedication extended far beyond the classroom. Penny was the biggest cheerleader for her own children, faithfully supporting them at countless baseball, football, softball, and cheer events. Whether in the stands or on the sidelines, she showed up with unwavering encouragement and pride. Above all else, Penny’s heart belonged to her family. She is survived by her daughter, Julia Frazier, and son-in-law, Brandon Frazier; her son, Geno Malanca; and her cherished grandchildren, Everett Frazier (4) and Amelia Frazier (1.5 months), who brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by the father of her children, Dave Malanca. Penny is survived by her twin sister Sherry Easterwood, and bothers Gilbert McCullough, and Thomas Storm McCullough, along with her 13 nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved deeply. Penny will be remembered as vibrant, empowering, inspiring, and endlessly encouraging—beautiful inside and out. She exuded love, support, and light, and was always all in for anyone who needed help. Even in her later years, as she lived with Parkinson’s disease, her light continued to shine. She had a way of lighting up a room, and those around her never failed to feel her warmth and energy. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched—as a teacher, coach, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—and through the love she gave so freely to the world. She remains forever in our hearts. Announcement Penny Lynn McCullough Malanca, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on February 7, 2026 after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. She had recently celebrated her 64th birthday on January 25, 2026. She remains forever in our hearts. A colorful celebration of life will be held Monday, February 16th, at Elite Event Venue 4105 W Figarden Dr., Fresno, CA 93722 Time: 11am-4pm, Food will be served from 11:30am-1pm Please bring stories and pictures to share with Penny’s loved ones. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to Penny’s favorite Parkinson’s group; Exercise for Life Foundation, 1827 Goshen Ave, Clovis CA, 93611 Federal Tax ID (EIN) 85-3822663. This foundation is the non-profit umbrella that funds the Rock Steady Boxing Central Cal services.

Tributes

Penny Lynn McCullough Malanca

January 25, 2026 - February 7, 2026