I will miss my friend Laurie for the rest of my life.  I think of her every day with fond memories and thoughts. She was one of a kind and very much loved by everyone. I miss her smiling face and fun nature. I love you my friend. 

Just saw the video of Laurie's life in pictures. What a beautiful tribute. Brought happy tears. Thank you for sharing.  Always a smile. 

Laurene and I served on the NCAGT Board together for numerous years, as well as in Wake County Public Schools. She was a force to be reckoned with - such a strong, focused, passionate leader. When NCAGT co-hosted the national convention, Laurene was at the helm directing the ship. Her leadership and voice were valuable across the state in gifted education, as well as in Wake County Public Schools. We shared together that we both went back to our first love, teaching. She will be greatly missed!

Laurene was the first person to welcome me to the neighborhood, of course she brought over some kind of yummy jello! Her daughter and my daughter became classmates and fast friends, as our friendship grew also. I was shocked to learn of her passing; too young and too soon for the life of the party to leave!!! I admired her confidence and happy outlook on life. Looking at all the photos, it really made me feel— a lot! That pretty much describes Laurene, she alwYs had the time to make ya feel valued, honored and loved. I shall miss you so. My love to Lenny, Jim and Ashley and their families. 


I was honored to know Laurene as colleagues at StMS. We connected initially by our love for Massachusetts and later by our love of the N.C. coast. She was always eager to share the name of a favorite restaurant or shop in Southport. I send my prayers and sympathy to her family.

I will always remember how Dr. Madern shared such wonderful stories of her life with her classes. She would always speak so fondly of her children and husband. I specifically remember the story of her first car that she got for around $20! She was and always will be such a remarkable woman, and will be remembered and cherished by many. She was always kind, but strict, with us, her students. Dr. Madern has been one of the strongest people I will ever have had the pleasure of knowing and being taught by. Sending so much love and prayers for her and her family.

Lenny, Jim, and Ashley,
The North Carolina Association for the Gifted and Talented sends our deepest sympathy, love and support.  So many have wonderful memories of Laurene's positive energy, focus and dedication as she served on the NCAGT Board of Directors and as President in support of the education for the gifted.  She will be greatly missed.

Comfort and peace to each of you.

Since I cannot come to services I spent the evening looking at all the wonderful pictures. I am go grateful that you had many joyous times in your life that was taken much too soon. As I released butterflies in your honor I reflected on all the memories we shared since I met you at Norwayne and how much you enriched not only my life but everyone you met. Your smile and magnetic personality lit up a room. I will miss you dearly and my heart goes out to Lenny, Ashley, Jim and your grandchildren. Heaven truly gained a beautiful and special lady

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Lenny, Jim & Ashley. We will miss Laurene’s big smile & big heart. She was a positive spirit who was always willing to give of herself & lend a helping, supportive hand.  May memories of happy, loving times stay in your hearts always. ❤️

Laurene will be remembered for her beautiful soul. She was nurturing, loving and she would light up a room with her smile❤️ Heaven has added another angel .


My friend Laurie was part of my life for over 30 years. We traveled the same roads to Goldsboro, Raleigh, and Southport.   Laurie welcomed me and my children into her family and her heart. She will forever be part of my life’s story. I cannot express the loss I feel without her. May God bless my great friend and may He keep her in the palm of his hand. 

We met in college . My funniest memory was she was in amherst, lenny came up to meet her there. He walked into the room and I told him to drop his ski boots anywhere. Yes he dropped them. What a noise. Though we have only been in touch through Facebook part of my life has past. My prayer to her family

My husband and I had the fortunate opportunity to finally meet Laurene in person and spend quality time together at my brother’s and  Ashley’s wedding. We were overwhelmed by her kindness and vivacious spirit. Lauren was an amazing Mother-In-Law to my brother, and my family was blessed to have her in our lives. I will forever be thankful for the gift of her presence in my brothers life, the wonderful relationship she shared with my parents, and all the love and support she exuded over the years. God bless her family now and always. 

My deepest Condolences to Lenny, Jim and Ashley. Although we lost touch over the years, I so enjoyed spending time with Laurie. Lived next door to you when we lived on Aberdeen Circle. My Children Ed and Michael played with Jim and Ashley. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Such a loss.

Laurie and I began teaching in the mid 1970’s at Browne Junior High School. We became support for each other and that support turned into a life-long friendship.  Laurie was the kind of friend who you may not talk to for a couple of years but when you did meet up it was like you were together yesterday.  She was always optimistic and knew where she wanted to be. 
I will miss her smile and knowing that she will not be there anymore. She is a great loss to all who know her. My thoughts and prayers to Lenny, Jim and Ashley  and their families.



We are so saddened to learn of Dr. Madern's passing and are so grateful our son Timothy had the blessing to have been her student at St. Michael School.  Timothy shared with us how much he felt that she really cared about her students.  We will always remember her warmth and grace and pray for her family.  May perpetual light shine upon her

Aunt Laurie welcomed me to the family openly and graciously. I am so thankful for the opportunity to get to know her and will cherish the memories of warmth and good cheer that we shared together.  With love,
Kali Sparks-Melia

Knowing the Madern family while in Goldsboro, N.C.  was one of my fondest memories.  Laurene had the most contagious laughter of anyone ever.  Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
    Jane Ellen (Edwards) Ingram  

Laurie had the most infectious laugh and always had a smile on her face. She always viewed the (wine) glass as half full...and she was always the penultimate hostess tempting her guests with her repertoire of Italian delicacies. I'm so happy that she and Lenny were able to spend time with their newest grandson prior to her passing. Her welcoming manner will be greatly missed at South Harbour Village Marina. We love you, Laurie, rest well, sweet lady. Lenny and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. 🙏💙🙏💙

Our thoughts, hearts, and prayers are with you and your family Lenny.  There will be one less ray of sunshine in our lives. With much love, Chris&Joannie.

OBITUARY

Dr. Laurene Patricia Madern

February 28, 1953 – August 15, 2020

Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park

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