Dr. James Brent Madill O.D.

Dr. James Brent Madill, O.D., passed away peacefully in Hanford, California, on September 16, 2026, at age 87. Known as Brent, he devoted his life to family, patient care, and community service—with generosity, integrity, and a memorable sense of humor.

Born in East Lansing, Michigan, Brent served in the United States Army, studied pre-optometry at Arizona State University, and earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Los Angeles College of Optometry in 1962. He established his Hanford practice in 1966, caring for generations of patients for more than forty years.

A longtime member and board member of the Tulare-Kings County Optometric Society, Brent received the California Optometric Association’s Outstanding Young Optometrist of the Year Award.

His dedication to Hanford extended into public service. Elected to the Hanford City Council in 1978 and 1982, he served as mayor and vice mayor. In 1996, Governor Pete Wilson appointed him to the Kings County Board of Supervisors. He also served on the Hanford City Planning Commission, including as chairman, the Kings County Transportation Commission, Kings County Planning Commission, the Local Agency Formation Commission, and the Airport Land Use Commission.

Brent’s civic leadership included serving as president of the Hanford Rotary Club, exalted ruler of Hanford Elks Lodge No. 1259, Eagle chairman for a local Boy Scouts troop, chairman of the American Cancer Society of Kings County, and a board member of the Hanford Jaycees. His contributions earned the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award and Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

Brent brought the same enthusiasm to his many interests. A licensed private pilot, he loved flying and traveling with family and friends. He raised, trained, and showed Doberman Pinschers and had a fondness for British automobiles, especially his Austin-Healey and Lotus.

His love of Western films and American West history led to competitive shooting. Known as “Tucson Smith,” he competed for years with the Kings River Regulators through the Single Action Shooting Society. He also enjoyed recording music, golfing at Kings Country Club, and skiing in Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes, China Peak, Utah, and Colorado.

Above all, Brent treasured his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Brenda, in 1963, beginning 63 years of love and shared adventures. Participating in YMCA Indian Guides with his sons created cherished memories true to its motto, “Pals Forever.”

Brent is survived by his wife, Brenda; sister, Pamela Madill; sons, Robert “Scott” Madill and Christopher Madill (Carey); grandchildren, Chloe Hoke, Evan Madill, Ellon Brittingham (John), Elizabeth Larson (John), and Caroline Madill; and great-granddaughters, Ruby and Lucy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Gene and Mary Jane Madill, and brother, Patrick Madill.

His trademark laugh, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to family will remain with those who knew him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a doctor, public servant, mentor, and friend.

A celebration of Brent’s life will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Kings Country Club (3529 12th Ave, Hanford, CA 93230).