Johnnie Madison departed this life on Monday, December 16, 2024. Johnnie was born on August 12, 1938, in Bay Springs, Mississippi, to the late Felix and Fannie Mae Madison. The family later relocated to Pittsburgh, Kansas, where Johnnie attended Pittsburgh High School and was an outstanding track star.
At the age of seventeen years old, he was encouraged by his Aunt Cooley, who had much to do with his development into manhood, to enter the military. Johnnie joined the United States Navy and later was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, where he met his beloved wife, the late Sarah Ann Alston Madison.
His outstanding achievements in the United States Navy included Good Conduct Awards, Service Medals, Expeditionary Medals, a Bronze Star Medal for Heroism, and a Purple Heart Recipient. One of his most challenging deployments was in 1976 in Barcelona, Spain, where many of his shipmates lost their lives in a horrible peacetime accident. His family waited anxiously, not knowing if he would be one of the casualties as a result of this tragedy. His military career included serving as a “Gunman” during the Vietnam War. Johnnie retired from the United States Navy on August 8, 1977, as a Master Chief Seargent.
After Johnnie’s military career, he began a new career as a plant superintendent for ITT Heinz Services. He was known for being a direct leader those under his supervision knew that he expected a “spirit of excellence” in the workplace.
Johnnie attended church regularly with his wife. During the fall of 1998, Johnnie accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at Calvary Revival Church, Norfolk, Virginia, under the leadership of Bishop B. Courtney and Pastor Janeen McBath. During his brief illness, he rededicated his life to Jesus.
Those who spent time with Johnnie would listen intensely as he told war stories or childhood memories that would leave one in total amazement. Johnnie was known for his witty sense of humor and sharp mind. He loved to cook; his specialties were oxtails, pig’s feet, and his prize-winning barbecue sauce to base his delicious ribs. Johnnie had many endearing names, such as Papa Madison, Chief, and “Unc,” to name a few.
He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Johnnie Kaye Azode and Sherri Madison Ruff (Lorne), two sons, Larry Madison (Dorsey) and Michael Madison; seven grandchildren, Jonathan Madison, Justin Madison, Bryson Ruff, Marcell Todd, Taylor Donell, Tiffany Waweru, and Tiandra Shorts; five great-grandchildren; a special niece Vikki Marshall-Barnes who spent countless hours with him during his brief illness encouraging him, and a special friend Mr. Willie Cooper. Johnnie was well-loved by a host of other family members, including his sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
We thank God for the life of Johnnie Madison. He lived a full life and will be greatly missed by his family and friends and his special pet dog, “Zack.”
I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold, I am alive forever and ever! (Revelation 1:18)
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Charlease McCauley Hatchett says
December 18, 2024 at 7:39 pmDearest Madison Family,
Mr. Johnnie was truly a remarkable soul whose kindness and warmth touched the lives of all who knew him. The bond he shared with my father was one that transcended time, and knowing that they were best friends brings me a deep sense of comfort and joy. I will cherish the conversations we had and the wisdom he shared.
As we hold him in our hearts, may God embrace him and keep him safe until we meet again on the other side.
With all our love,
Charlease, Harold Hatchett, Helen McCauley, and Family.
S. Michelle Layne says
December 18, 2024 at 9:18 pmSending my deepest condolences to the Madison/Ruff family. Chief Madison, we have the watch. Thank you for your service. May he rest in eternal peace. Sending our prayers and love.
Kylah and Michelle Layne
Shelia Reavis Lewis says
December 19, 2024 at 5:14 pmMy deepest condolences to the Madison/Ruff family. My prayers are with you for strength and guidance during this difficult time.
Love you Sis
Sisterly Soror Shelia
Anthony and Eleanor Woodson says
December 18, 2024 at 10:17 pmSherri and family,
Praying for you and your family at this difficult time.
To be absent from the the body is to be present with the Lord…
Regina Brown says
December 18, 2024 at 11:22 pmMr Madison, was my buddy, I would stop by his house when I see see him sitting on the porch, we would have each other laughing! I’m going to miss my buddy! RIP , will really miss you! Love you. Love you SHERRIE AND THE FAMILY! I WILL BE THERE IF YOU NEED ME, OK?
Stephanie Clark says
December 19, 2024 at 3:32 pmI am praying for Mr. Madison’s family. The way his daughter, Mrs. Ruff, spoke of him, I can he was a man of great value and morale. Paradise has gained a beautiful soul. Blessings to everyone affected by this transition.
R T Gainey says
December 20, 2024 at 7:53 pmMy condolences extended to the Ruff and Madison families. May God continue to strengthen you during this difficult time. Praying for comfort.
Clarence Harper Sr says
December 21, 2024 at 8:27 amMy thoughts and prayers go out to the Madison family. Johnnie has been an awesome friend and neighbor for the past 40 years. He will truly be missed.
Ms. Pat caregiver says
December 22, 2024 at 12:18 pmMrs.Sherri and the Madison family you are in my prayers keep the 23rd psalms in your heart. Remembering the happy moments with your parents will help you through. Bless you.
Michael Combs says
December 22, 2024 at 2:56 pmHe was a good man I met him a few times as I repaired his is lawn equipment you will be missed sir
Loretta Barnard says
December 22, 2024 at 6:17 pmTo Sherrie, the family, love ones, & friends: May God continuously bless, strengthen, and comfort you all during this time.