Joe Edward Madden, son of Birdie (Willis) and Elmer Madden was born in Dodson, March 25, 1929 and died peaceful at his home in Natchitoches, Feb. 14, 2016. Joe graduated from Ruston High School and attended LA Tech. He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth Mathewes in 1950. He proudly served his country during the Korean conflict. A man that loved and enjoyed life, family and friends. He retired from South Central Bell/AT&T after over 35 years of service. Joe was a beloved husband to his wife, kind and loving father to their daughters, and a compassionate man to his grandchildren and great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and step father Ralph Lennig of Ruston. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, daughters Emily Smith (Rayburn) of Clarence, Margaret Plunkett (Sonny) of Waskom, Texas, grandchildren, Carrie Brewton (Benjamin) of Natchitoches, Laura Richerson (Jeremy) of LeCompte, and Joel Smith of Clarence and great-grandson Jack Brewton of Natchitoches. Visitation was held Feb. 15, at the First United Methodist Church of Natchitoches - Crossroads Chapel. A graveside service was held Feb. 16 at Memory Lawn Cemetery in Natchitoches with Rev. Doug deGraffenreid officiating. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Natchitoches and his caregivers: Robert Jackson Jr., Ruby Efferson, JoAnn Hamilton, and Beverly Lee. Special thanks to our friends and neighbors for their love, support and prayers over the last several years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 411 Second Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 910 Pierremont Rd, Suite 410, Shreveport, LA 71106 or the charity of choice.