Madalynn Willoughby Blackburn went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, November 27, 2023, ten days after celebrating her 73rd birthday. She was born on November 17, 1950, in Vicksburg to the late Charles L. Willoughby and Letha Polk Willoughby. She was the youngest of four siblings. She was raised in Jackson and graduated from Byram High School. While attending high school, she was involved in dance, basketball, and cheerleading. Growing up Madalynn developed a passion for the art of dance, oftentimes dreaming of performing on Broadway and opening her own dance studio to teach the next generation.
Madalynn was a dedicated mother first and foremost, not only to her three children but as a second mom to many. Upon entering the Blackburn home, you were sure to be greeted with a tender embrace and a welcoming comfort that only a loving mother can provide. She treasured her children and grandchildren, cherishing every moment that they spent together. She especially loved her role as Mimi. She had a vivacious personality, an infectious smile that could light up any room, and always welcomed everyone with open arms. All of whom loved her dearly and will never forget her grace, tenacity, laughter, warmth, and undying love she shared unconditionally.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles L. Willoughby and Letha P. Willoughby and siblings, Bettye J. Bowlin and Charles Richard “Dick” Willoughby. She will be dearly missed and survived by her children; Sharlynn M. Brown, Tony S. Yelverton (Chanda), Brandi Y. Stinson (George), brother Jack P. Willoughby, grandchildren; Maddison B. McLeod (Jae), Ryleigh J. Brown, Hadley E. Stinson, Thomas F. Stinson, numerous nieces and nephews and two great-grandsons.
Pallbearers will be Mack Willoughby, Paul Yamas, Vincent Jackson, Stan Brown, Ricky Robinson and Josh Russum. Honorary pallbearers will be Jack Willoughby, Richard B. “Ric” Bowlin and George Stinson.
A heartfelt thank you to Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, nephew Ric Bowlin, and niece Roselynn Middleton for providing exceptional care during her long battle with cancer.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 1, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Lakewood Funeral Home, followed by funeral at 3:00 PM. Lakewood Funeral Home is located at 6011 Clinton Blvd. Jackson, MS 39209. Madalynn will be laid to rest in Lakewood Memorial Park following the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to be made to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
