JOHN WILLIAM MALCOLM

PAWLET — John William Malcolm, 75, died at home in Pawlet, July 13, 2026, from multiple myeloma.

Born in Abington, Pa., to James A., Jr., and Janet Malcolm, he grew up on the Malcolm family farm in Jericho, N.Y. John completed his elementary and secondary education at Friends Academy in Locust Valley, N.Y. John attended Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. In preparation for his intended career in veterinary medicine, he interned for a year on a dairy farm, which led him to a career in farming on 400 acres in Pawlet. Hard work and sound practice brought success: in 1984 his cows attained the highest average milk production in the state; in 1987 he was named Outstanding Young Holstein Breeder; and, in 1990 he was Dairyman of the Year in Vermont.

John shared his farming knowledge by serving on the Governor’s Agricultural Advisory Board; testifying before the U.S. Senate’s Agricultural Committee; serving as president of the National Dairy Summit; and serving on the board of directors of Agri-Mark Inc. and Cabot Creamery Cooperative, the largest milk cooperative in the Northeast. In recognition of his distinguished achievements as a farmer and leader in the dairy industry, Williams College presented him with its Bicentennial Medal in 1994, which honors members of the Williams Community for distinguished achievement in any field of endeavor.

An active member of the Pawlet community for decades, John served on the Select Board, the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and as a justice of the peace, as well as a member of the town Historical Society. He was a State Legislator from 2005-2015 representing the Rutland-Bennington District 8 as a moderate Democrat. He felt it was important for farmers to be represented in the Legislature, where he served on the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy, and as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture.

He is survived by his life partner of 40 years, Susan LaPorte; brother Dr. James A. Malcolm III, (Nancy) of Middlebury, Vt.; his sister, Elizabeth Malcolm Eklof of Williston, Vt.; five nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Those wishing to honor John’s memory may donate to the Pawlett Historical Society, PO Box 113, Pawlet, VT 05761.

A Memorial graveside celebration will be held at a later date at the Mettowee Valley Cemetery. ◊