R. Finley Maddox

Ralph Finley Maddox, 95, of Cape Girardeau, Missouri died Monday, March 17, 2025 at the Lutheran Home. He was born September 1, 1929 in Oran, MO to Ralph Gordon and Thelma Morrow Maddox. Finley and Hannah Elizabeth Languell were married August 13, 1950 at Oran Baptist Church. Finley graduated from Oran High School in 1947. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1948 - 1955. He attended Southeast Missouri State University majoring in biology with minors in Business Administration and English, receiving his degree in 1952. After living in St. Louis and Oklahoma City, Finley and Hannah moved back to Cape Girardeau in 1958. They moved so he could start a new job as a pharmaceutical rep for Dow Chemical in the Pitman-Moore Division, soon to become Merrell-Dow Pharmaceuticals. He retired from Dow Chemical after 31 years with the company. After retirement, his hobbies were wood working with a shop smith, golfing, fishing and hunting. He was very active in the First Baptist Church, serving as deacon for 46 years and sang in the choir for 51 years. Under guidance from Finley, the church sponsored Boy Scout Troop #10. He acted as the assistant to the Scout Master for all of their camping trips while also serving as the District Commissioner for three years. Finley was a member of "The Breakfast Optimist Club" serving as President for one year while getting a Gold Card for 30 year attendance. Survivors include son, Kent Languell Maddox of Cape Girardeau; two granddaughters, Alysse Maddox of Cape Girardeau, and Miranda Maddox (Chris Magers) of Cape Girardeau; two great-grandchildren, Rowan and Harlow Magers. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hannah Maddox; son, Mark Finley Maddox; daughter, Janette Elizabeth Maddox; and brother, Richard Maddox. Visitation will be 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Ford & Sons Mt. Auburn Chapel in Cape Girardeau. Funeral services will be at 12:00 pm Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at the funeral home with Rev. Bruce Gentry officiating. A private burial will be at Friends Cemetery in Oran following the service. Memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church 1289 Lexington Ave., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 . Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com. Ford & Sons Funeral Home - Mt. Auburn is in charge of arrangements.

Tributes

R. Finley Maddox

September 1, 1929 - March 17, 2025