Final Salute

Donald Wayne Maddox, age 81, passed away peacefully at Colonel Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home in Pell City, Alabama on December 24, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of love. Don was born on April 6, 1943, to Charles and Eunice Maddox of Childersburg. He cherished his faith, his family, and his beloved Auburn Tigers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Shades Mountain Baptist Church Student Ministry or Manifold Vision.

A 1961 graduate of Childersburg High School, Don pursued higher education at Auburn University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in mechanical engineering. Don was a proud veteran and served his country in Vietnam with the Navy Seabees. He furthered his education at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. Don had a long and fulfilling career at Kimberly Clark in Childersburg.

Don is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Scherer (Dusty), Rachel Rikard (Clay), and his grandchildren, Benjamin Scherer, Grant Scherer, Claire Rikard, Jake Rikard, and Catherine Rikard. He is also survived by his ex-wife and friend, Sharon S. Maddox.

Don was the original “girl dad,” and could often be found shopping with his daughters, taking them out for steak dinners on Christmas Eve, or driving the Childersburg High School cheerleaders to football games throughout the early 1990s. His love for family grew even more with the birth of his five grandchildren. “Papa” always had a Dum Dum sucker for his grandkids and made sure his three grandsons all had Red Rider BB guns.

In addition to his daughters and grandchildren, Don is survived by siblings, Sandy Giddens, Michael (Sharon) Maddox and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Charles Allen Maddox (Frances); Lynese Dobbs (Donald); Billy Maddox (Linda); Delores Meeks (BJ) and Linda Jinks (Harold).

Don dedicated his life to sharing the message of Jesus. His unwavering faith and passion for spreading the gospel touched the lives of many. We find comfort in the knowledge that Don is now in the presence of the Lord, rejoicing in the eternal peace and joy of Heaven. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and the incredible impact he had on all who knew him. Rest in peace, Don. Your work on earth is done, but your legacy of faith and love will endure forever.

A Funeral service for Mr. Maddox will be held Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at 12 noon at Curtis and Son Childersburg Chapel. Visitation will be from 11-12 at the funeral home.