Jim Madison

Alfred “Jim” Madison, age 91, of Browns Valley, MN, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Browns Valley Health Center.

All are invited to attended graveside services which will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Valley View Cemetery in Browns Valley, MN. A luncheon and open house will continue following the graveside service at the Browns Valley American Legion.

The graveside service will be livestreamed and recorded and will be viewable at the bottom of this page.

Alfred James Madison was born on February 19, 1933, at his family home in Beardsley, MN, and remained a life-long resident of Browns Valley, MN, moving there as an infant; although he lived in Cheyenne, WY, for five months in 1960.

Having been baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith, Jim lived a committed and purposeful life. He began his career as a grocery store clerk during his high school years before transitioning to become a dedicated car salesman at several Chevrolet dealerships. Later in life, he owned the Standard Oil Station in Browns Valley for three years. He established Jim’s Body Shop and Used Cars in the city of Browns Valley. After five years, he moved the business to family land a half mile north of Browns Valley where it remained the largest salvage yard in the state of Minnesota for over three decades.

In 1955, Jim was united in marriage with Jeanette Matherson and together, they were blessed with their son, Timothy. On May 28, 1960, Jim was united in marriage with Barbara King and they were blessed with two daughters, Dianne and Julie.

Jim was an active member of his community, serving on the school board for nine years in addition to his membership at the Town and Country Club. He found joy in various hobbies, from his love of bowling, which led him to sponsor a bowling team, to his appreciation for the Minnesota Vikings, the Minnesota Twins, and NASCAR racing. Jim’s granddaughter lovingly referred to him as “Grandpa, The Fixer” as he could fix most anything that wasn’t working or needed a little TLC. His pastimes included collecting model cars, frequenting garage sales, fishing off the dock, and racing neighbors in his blue speedboat on Lake Traverse. Jim also enjoyed giving boat rides on the lake to family and friends. 

Known for his warmth and generosity, Jim was devoted to his family. He shared many wonderful years with his beloved spouse, Barbara Madison, and they cherished the time spent together, especially during their annual winter stays in Arizona. A man of strength and remarkable skill, he played Cribbage weekly, excelling in both camaraderie and competition.

The legacy of Alfred “Jim” James Madison will forever endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life, filled with dedication, kindness, and a passion for community, leaves a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to know him.

Jim leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Barbara of Browns Valley, MN; son, Timothy (Nancy) Goodhart of Isanti, MN; daughters: Dianne Madison of Minnetonka, MN; and Julie Madison of Morris, MN; two granddaughters: Betsie Madison and Arianna Madison; two grandsons: Michael Goodhart and Cody Goodhart; three great-grandchildren: Dominic Goodhart, Gavin Goodhart, and Jenabell Goodhart; brother, Jerald Madison of Fort Collins, CO; brother-in-law, Franklin (Cele) King of Sioux Falls, SD; sister-in-law, Shirley Thompson of Sioux Falls, SD; along with many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister-in-law, Karon Madison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice, the Browns Valley Ambulance, or Browns Valley Fire Department.