Carl Freeman Maddox, Jr.

Carl Freeman “Tony” Maddox, Jr.

Carl Freeman “Tony” Maddox, 87, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. He lived a life marked by faith, family devotion, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone who knew him.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Freeman Maddox; his older brother, Edsel Maddox; his sister, Ann Wagner; and his beloved wife of 53 years, Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Maddox.

He is survived by his younger brothers, Roger Maddox, Thomas Maddox and wife Susan; his son Chad Austin Maddox and wife Jennifer and their daughters, Maclaine and Jordan; his son Ty Carl Maddox and wife Tiffany and their daughters, Meredith and Natalie; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Carl Freeman Jr. was born in Longview, Texas on October 10, 1938 and was quickly nicknamed “Tony” as he resembled a popular boxer of the day, “Two Ton Tony Galento.” He was raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he formed lifelong values of kindness and faith. He graduated from Hot Springs High School in 1956 and went on to attend Abilene Christian College, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1962. Tony was living in Dallas and working in the oil and gas industry when he was set up on a blind date with a Delta flight attendant. Later that year on November 3, 1964, he married the love of his life, Liz, beginning a marriage that would span more than five decades and be a constant source of strength and support.

A devoted follower of Christ, Tony was a member of The Hills Church from the 1980s onward. His faith was not only something he believed, but something he lived daily. He loved the Lord deeply and was known to break into song at any moment, letting music express the joy of his heart. In his later years, Tony found special purpose in sharing a small booklet, The Good News from God, with nearly everyone he met—a simple but heartfelt ministry through which he expressed his enduring hope and faith.

Tony will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his love for his family, his unwavering faith, and the warmth he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the songs he sang, and the good news he so faithfully shared.

“Well done, good and faithful servant!” - Matthew 25:21

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Christian Relief Fund at crf.com