

Gloria Jean Goodner Maddox, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, lived a life full of love, laughter, adventure, and deep appreciation for family and friends. A proud graduate of Central High School class of 1950 in Chattanooga, Jean grew up skiing on Chickamauga Lake and went on to spend nearly fifty years living on the lake and river she adored. Those waters formed the backdrop of her happiest days and lifelong friendships.
Jean was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Later in life, she discovered a passion for golf and became an enthusiastic competitor in the Chattanooga Women’s Golf Association. She treasured her time on the course at the Chattanooga Golf & Country Club and Spruce Creek Golf Club in Daytona Beach, Florida.
When she wasn’t golfing, Jean loved to travel — especially alongside her late husband, Preston. Together, they explored the country in their Blue Bird motor coach with their beloved poodle, Prissy, creating cherished memories in parks and along highways across the nation.
Jean had a vibrant personality with a love for repeating a good story, bargain treasure-hunting at TJ Maxx, solitaire, and a competitive round of bingo. Her life was made fuller by the loyal friendship and support of Linda Slayton over the past 30 years, as well as the compassionate care she received from the team at Morning Pointe assisted living.
Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Preston, and her son, Michael Williams. She is survived by her son Tony Williams (Lea Ann), daughters Kim Pratt (Dan), Shirley Breedlove (Barry); grandchildren Megan, Matt, Julie, David, Emma, and Cullen; and eight great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in the countless memories she created and the many lives she touched.
The family will receive friends Saturday April 18, 2026 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
Private services for family will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Hamilton Memorial Gardens with Pastor Will Lauderback officiating. Entombment will follow the service in Faith Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions be made to the Chambliss Center for Children, www.chamblisscenter.org/ or the Alice Fund, www.thealicefund.org/
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com
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