Joan Marie Madsen Obituary

Joan Marie Harp Madsen, age 80 of Rossville, passed from life into God's loving presence on Monday March 6, 2023 after a long struggle with cancer. She is now at peace and no more in pain.

She was born March 16, 1942 in Chattanooga to the late Roy Edward and Jane Lackey Harp. Joan was a 1960 Graduate of Lakeview High School and earned a Degree in General Education from Chattanooga State Community College in 1962. Shortly after graduating she moved to California where she met and married Gary Dean Madsen. She and Gary eventually relocated to Lakeview where Joan attended Newman Springs Methodist Church.

Joan enjoyed nature, gardening, crafts and painting. She loved reading her Bible and listening to Christian music. She relished cooking and like to try new foods. She loved her pets with cat Minnie being the latest. Trips with her mother were often on Joan's agenda in earlier years. She grew up with family all around and in a place where children could explore and grow with support and love. She was grateful.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Gary Dean Madsen.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sister, Susan Welsh (Joe) of Houston, TX; niece, Alesia Sivley (Richard); nephew, Christopher Welsh (Shazia); grandnieces, Ashlie Sivley Yarborough (Baron) and Cassia Welsh; grandnephew, Zachary Sivley; great grandnephew, Benson Yarborough; many cousins, extended family and many friends.

The family wishes to thank Joan's cousin Sandy Baker for overseeing her care and being with her through these difficult days since her sister was unable to be with her. Our special thanks also to her cousin "Skip" Baker for being such a good friend and helper, along with all of the other family members who were there for her. Especially Rachel Randolph and Cynthia Morton who gave help wherever it was needed.

We are grateful to Jamie Ellis, Pastor at Woodstation United Methodist Church and the Chaplain for Hearth Hospice, for his music and words that touched Joan's soul and helped her through this difficult time. As well as childhood friends, Charlene and Judy King and her new loving friend Cindy Favors for their ongoing support. To all caregivers involved with Joan's care, we thank you.

Graveside. Funeral Service will be 2:30pm Tuesday March 14, 2023 at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Pastor Jamie Ellis officiating.