Marlene Joy Moll

Colonel Marlene Joy Moll, Retired, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2020 in her home with her beloved wife, Judy A. Moll by her side.  Born in Chicago, Illinois on September 24, 1937. She was the daughter of the late Maurice Moll and Lillian Lederman Moll.

Marlene joined the United State Air Force in 1959, proudly serving her country for 26 years until her retirement as Senior Military Officer Colonel.  During that time, she earned her Master’s degree in Public Health and Health Service Administration from the University of Hawaii.  She broke down many barriers for woman in an era where military personnel were predominately male.

Marlene was the Head of the Physical Therapy Department at Andrews Air Force Base and she was the Chief Physical Therapist for the United States Air Force.  Marlene was the first woman Colonel in the Medical Core Services and was also the first woman in history to serve as a consultant to the Surgeon General.  She developed the exercise program that is used by astronauts in their space cabins.  Marlene was a pioneer in the Air Force.  Her contributions to the profession of Physical Therapy included developing, designing and implementing innovative treatment plans and training programs throughout the world.  While serving her country, she was stationed in Texas, California and Hawaii (one of her favorites), before returning to Washington, D.C. area.  She laid the groundwork for Physical Therapy, one that is still in use today.  Marlene was a leader like no other. 

In 1985, she retired after a very interesting, exciting and illustrious career with the Air Force; she returned to Physical Therapy and spent 12 years as a home therapist.  In 2000, she decided to retire a second time and start the next chapter of her life.  Marlene enjoyed trips to the beach, her garden, walks around the parks and the arts.  Marlene loved hiking, being active and adventurous.  She was always willing to try something new, like kayaking, which she tried for the first time in 2019 at the age of 82 and loved it. Marlene maintained a lifelong interest in medicine, politics and continued learning.  She had a number of close friends many of whom often expressed that she was like a “second” Mother to them.  Marlene was full of life and full of love.  We will never be able to fill the void. 

Marlene was preceded in death by her brother, Eddie and is survived by her wife Judy Moll, the love of her life, her niece Kelli Moll, nephew Dean Moll and Sister-in-Law Natalie Udell as well as many close friends.  All loved Marlene without end and will miss her greatly.  A service will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in the honor of Marlene Moll to one of the following organizations; the American Heart Association, the ASPCA and National Women Veterans of America.