Funeral arrangements have been announced for Ġorġ Mallia, the acclaimed author, cartoonist and educator who died aged 68.His family confirmed on social media that a celebration of Ġorġ’s life will be held at St George Parish Church in Qormi on Saturday 22 August at 8.30am.Mallia leaves behind a remarkable legacy spanning literature, education and the arts. He served as Head of the Department of Media and Communications at the University of Malta, where he mentored generations of students and helped shape Malta’s media landscape.He was also one of Malta’s most beloved children’s authors, writing and illustrating numerous books that became staples for young readers. Among his best-known works were Ktieb ix-Xwejjaħ, Avventura Taħt l-Art and the popular Pullu series.Beyond publishing, Mallia was widely recognised for his work as a cartoonist, including his long-running contributions to Times of Malta. He was also a strong advocate for authors and artists, serving as chairman of the National Book Council and later as chair of Malta University Press.Announcing the funeral arrangements, Samwel described his father as a person whose impact would continue to live on through the many people whose lives he touched through his teaching, kindness and generosity.Mallia’s passing has been met with sadness across Malta’s cultural, literary and academic communities, with many remembering his contribution to education, storytelling and the creative arts over several decades.Rest in peace, Ġorġ Mallia.•