James Maddux

James Randall “Randy” Maddux transitioned to eternal life in Heaven on 4/25/24 at the age of sixty-seven following his battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Ashland, KY on March 29, 1957, he resided in Kingsport, TN since 2005. Randy graduated from Paul G. Blazer High School in Ashland in 1975 and remained close to many of his classmates. He was an original member of Tomcats for Tomcats (TFT), a group of Blazer graduates who work together to assist others in need by paying it forward. After graduating with an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from University of Kentucky, he relocated to Ocala, FL in 1986. Many friends from Ocala remained dear to him throughout the years. Randy married the love of his life and best friend, Sherry, on September 15, 1979. He retired from Eastman Chemical Company in 2023 following 16 years of service.

Randy will be remembered as a kind, funny, loving servant, who always strived to put others before himself. Randy loved to be outdoors hiking, biking, scuba diving, zip lining, or simply sitting around the fire pit of the evening and taking in God’s great wonders. If he wasn’t outdoors, he could be found watching nearly any sport on TV, coaching and commentating. He loved to play pool with friends and family and would keep the games going for hours. He enjoyed music of almost any genre. Although a self-professed tone-deaf meager singer, he would karaoke with the best of them. He also enjoyed the fellowship of his best friends while sampling a local brew and a fine cigar.

In addition to his parents Jim and Mabel Maddux, Randy is preceded in death by his son Brice, and his sister Leigh Ann.

Survivors include his wife Sherry of 44 years, daughter Alison Maddux (daughter-in law Jill Channing), and son Cameron Maddux (daughter-in-law Sydney Maddux). He will be sorely missed by his loving dog and ever-present sentinel, Lola.

Randy had many special friends including Tommy Cantrell, Bob Fosson, the Tomcats for Tomcats, and his brothers in the Kingsport Sunday Prayer Meeting.

The family extends special thanks to the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center team (Dr. Cardin and Jeneth), Ballad Health Home Hospice and Hospice House nurses, Ballad Health Supply Chain Team for your never-ending support, and everyone who sent a card or a prayer.

Funeral services will be conducted on May 4th at 1:00 PM at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, reception to follow. In lieu of flowers please donate to your charity of choice, especially one that benefits children. To honor and remember Randy, kick back and watch your favorite sports team, listen to your favorite tunes, sip a good IPA, or enjoy a fine cigar. 

Above all, always be kind and do your best to be a servant.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interest of the others.” Phil. 2:3-4

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