Barbara Eloise Madison, 82, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, passed away at her home on December 10, 2025. She was born August 25, 1943, in Searcy, Arkansas, to Nathen “Eugene” and Jessie “Juanita” Payne Hardin.
On November 16, 1968, Barbara was united in marriage to James Henry Madison in California. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their union was blessed with two children, Timber Cox (husband Robert) and James Anthony Madison, as well as a stepson, Marcus Parsons.
Barbara and James were avid travelers, exploring all 50 states, six continents, and 90 countries. She was a devoted fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Kansas City Chiefs, proudly wearing jersey on game days and never missed a chance to see Patrick Mahomes. Barbara’s greatest joy came from giving to others, making people smile, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
A faithful member of the Mammoth Spring Church of Christ, Barbara cherished her church family and her Lord and Savior. She was known for her cheerful whistling, her playful sense of humor, and her generous heart. At age 45, Barbara earned her GED, and at 50 she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Criminal Justice. She went on to serve the State of Georgia, retiring from Rehabilitation Services as a vocational rehabilitation counselor.
Barbara is survived by her children, Timber Cox (Robert), James Anthony Madison, and stepson Marcus Parsons; grandchildren Nathan Cox (Stephanie), Travis Cox (Stacie), Amari Madison, Lyrie Madison, and Marcus Parsons Jr.; great-grandchildren Hoyt Cox, Millie Cox, and Destinii Monaé Jones; sisters Wanda Hardin and Bobbie Hardin; her special nephew Roy Zeagler, who shared her love of Georgia sports; several nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law Ashley Madison and Joseph Madison; and sisters-in-law Bonnie Anderson, Maggie Cole, Shirley Madison, Clara Madison, and Maranda Madison.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband James Madison, her parents Eugene and Juanita Hardin, and her brother Mark Hardin.
Barbara will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her devotion to family, and her unwavering faith. Her legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Memorials may be made to:
The Children’s Home of Paragould, Arkansas
5515 Walcott Road
Paragould, AR 72450
Donate – Children’s Homes, Inc.
Officiating will be Brother Barry O’Dell with song leader, Forrest Rose.
A Funeral will be on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., at the Carter Funeral Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
Burial will be at a later date at the Stephens Cemetery of Warner Robins, Georgia.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri
