Kee Malesky, a beloved figure in the world of journalism and public radio, has passed away at the age of 74. Her death marks the end of an era for many who knew her, especially those at National Public Radio (NPR), where she dedicated over two decades of her career. Malesky’s contributions to the network and the field of journalism were immense, and her passing has left a deep void in the industry. Known for her unwavering commitment to facts and accuracy, Kee Malesky was an integral part of NPR for many years, serving as the network’s research librarian until her retirement in 2014. She was more than just a librarian; she was a trusted figure who helped shape the quality of NPR’s content, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and integrity.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Malesky’s roots in the community were deep, with her family calling the area home for over 150 years. Her love for knowledge and passion for truth led her to pursue higher education at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. There, she earned both an undergraduate degree in Art and a master’s in Library and Information Science. Malesky’s time in Washington, D.C., was a formative period, where she developed a deep appreciation for the free museums the city had to offer. However, she famously joked about the city’s lack of good pizza compared to her hometown, a sentiment that many Brooklyn natives could certainly relate to.
Malesky’s career at NPR began in the early 1980s, where she would go on to spend more than two decades as the network’s research librarian. She became a trusted source for journalists, producers, and staff, providing invaluable research support and helping to ensure that the facts presented on NPR’s programs were accurate and reliable. Whether it was cataloging and archiving, conducting background research, or helping to identify experts for interviews, Malesky’s behind-the-scenes work was crucial to the stories heard on NPR.
One of Malesky’s greatest strengths was her attention to detail and her ability to maintain the highest standards of accuracy. She was renowned for her skills in fact-checking, something that became increasingly important as NPR’s global reach expanded. Journalists and producers knew they could rely on her to verify information, track down sources, and ensure that the stories being broadcasted met the high editorial standards that NPR was known for. Her role at NPR was essential, and her influence helped shape the quality of news that millions of listeners relied on every day.
Beyond her contributions in research, Malesky was also deeply knowledgeable about language, providing guidance on pronunciation, grammar, and usage. She had a unique ability to clarify complex language issues and suggest ways to improve clarity in stories. While she was passionate about ensuring that NPR staff used language correctly, she often humorously pointed out that there were some words, like “nuclear,” that were impossible to stop people from mispronouncing. Despite this, her colleagues always appreciated her insights and her commitment to helping them improve the clarity and accuracy of their work.
Malesky’s colleagues at NPR often spoke of her dedication to truth, her warm personality, and her generosity. She was known for being approachable and always willing to help. Whether it was a simple question or a complex research request, she was there to lend her expertise. Her kindness and willingness to share her knowledge earned her the respect and admiration of everyone she worked with. Malesky’s commitment to factual integrity and her work ethic made her a revered figure at NPR, and her influence extended far beyond the newsroom.
In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, Malesky’s husband, Robert Malesky, announced her passing and expressed his grief. He revealed that they had just celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in January and described Kee as “the most amazing person” he had ever known. The couple had been married for over five decades, and Robert’s words reflected the deep love and admiration he had for his wife. Kee Malesky’s passing is a significant loss to the world of public radio and journalism, and her husband’s message highlighted the profound impact she had on everyone around her.
Kee Malesky’s legacy will continue to live on in the work she did during her career and the influence she had on the field of journalism. Her passion for facts, her commitment to accuracy, and her dedication to ensuring the highest standards in public radio have left a lasting imprint on NPR. Her contributions were instrumental in shaping the stories that millions of listeners relied on for news, information, and insights. Malesky’s work helped set the standard for journalistic integrity, and her commitment to truth will remain a model for journalists in the years to come.
As the news of her passing spreads, tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and admirers of her work. Many have shared stories of how she impacted their careers and the role she played in ensuring that the stories they worked on were both accurate and meaningful. For the many people who knew her personally, Malesky was more than just a colleague or an expert. She was a mentor, a friend, and a trusted advisor who always had time for others, no matter how busy her schedule was.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Malesky was remembered for her kindness, warmth, and generosity. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel valued, whether it was a junior reporter just starting out in the industry or a seasoned journalist seeking advice. Her humility, despite her impressive credentials and decades of experience, made her beloved by all who knew her.
As NPR and the broader journalism community mourn the loss of Kee Malesky, it is clear that her contributions will never be forgotten. Her legacy is one of integrity, passion, and dedication to the truth. Her work and her commitment to accuracy and fairness will continue to serve as an example for future generations of journalists. For those who had the privilege of working with her, Kee Malesky was an irreplaceable figure whose impact on the world of public radio and journalism will endure for years to come.
In this difficult time, the thoughts and prayers of her colleagues, friends, and loved ones are with her family as they navigate their grief. While Kee Malesky may no longer be with us, her spirit will live on in the stories she helped tell, the lives she touched, and the legacy she leaves behind. Rest in peace, Kee. Your dedication to the truth and your commitment to excellence will never be forgotten.
