Earl Linwood Madison, Jr.

Earl Linwood Madison, Jr., 70, of Mechanicsville, Virginia went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 8, 2015. He was preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Raymond and Virginia Nunn; his parents Earl and Virginia Madison; three sisters, Gayle, Pat and Linda and a special uncle “Bud.” He is survived by wife, Jane; six very caring children, Nikki (Jason), Tiffany (Shawn), Jamie (Tammy), Joey (Donna), Bobby (Shannon) and Christie (Mitch); and 16 wonderful grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as either “Papa” or “Owa”; loving brother, Stuart Madison (Jean); aunt, Betty Ann; several nieces and nephews; a brother-in-law, Ed; two sisters-in-law, Ann and Betty (Harold); and his precious little dog, “Peanut.” Earl proudly served his country in the Navy from 1963-1967 aboard the U.S.S. Laffey and kept in touch with shipmates through the years. He devoted his entire career as a rescue squad EMT and professional firefighter with Henrico County for 28 years. Earl owned his own construction companies through the years and was well known for his honesty, hard work and especially his work ethic. He was a life-long member of New Bridge Baptist Church and a member of the American Legion post 175. Earl retired to spend more time doing the things he loved so much, such as golf, taking cruises, watching Nascar racing, and as always, helping others. He was a quiet man with a huge heart and a gentle spirit and he will be deeply missed. Funeral arrangements will be handled by Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave Richmond, Virginia 23231, where family will gladly receive all guests from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on Sunday, April 12. There will be a memorial service in the chapel at 1pm on Monday, April 13, led by Rev. Troy Pearson, nephew and Mike Woods, firefighter chaplain. Interment to immediately follow at Washington Memorial Park. Online condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.nelsenrichmond.com.