David Alan Maddox, age 73, of Ellijay, Georgia, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, David lived a full and generous life marked by deep devotion to his family, unwavering loyalty to his friends, and a quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ellen "Snookie" Maddox and James Edward Maddox Sr.; his brothers, Ronald "Ronny" Wayne Maddox, Dudley Warren Maddox, and James Edward Maddox Jr.; and two loved ones who were like brothers to him — his nephew, Eric Maddox, and his cousin, Neil Holloway.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cherie Maddox. She was the light of his life and he was the wind beneath her wings. Any dream or vision she had, he would build into reality. There is not a corner of their home or property unmarked by his creative touch.The two would have celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on December 28th.

David also leaves behind his cherished family: Holly Wells and husband Kevin Wells, grandchildren Gracee and Koltin Wells, Joshua Maddox and wife Amy Maddox, grandchildren Hunter and Emma Maddox, Kristi Maddox, Roseanna Ringham and husband Jason Ringham, Shane Collins and wife Shawna Taylor, granddaughter Sydney Collins, and Lisa Reid, his sister

A true jack of all trades, David's talents were boundless. He worked at Continental Can, ran his own construction company, and built many beautiful cabins on Fort Mountain and Walnut Mountain. His craftsmanship could be seen not only in the homes he built but also in his work on the Great American Scream Machine at Six Flags Over Georgia. Known to mark his tools with "DAM," David took pride in every project he touched.

A gifted mechanic, he could build or fix anything with an engine, and as a first responder and bus driver (he had a reputation as "the cool bus driver"), he devoted himself to serving others. He and his wife owned the Northstar Emporium on the square, where he ran his fudge shop for nine years. Yet one of his most endearing skills was as a patient and loving father — even mastering the art of braiding his daughters' hair.

David was the embodiment of the saying "Still waters run deep." He was witty, loyal, and always ready to lend a hand — often dropping everything to help someone in need. He loved riding motorcycles, both on the open road and even in his dreams.

The philosophy he lived by was: "If you've got a problem, do something about it. If you can't do anything about it, it's not a problem."

Above all, David will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His quiet strength, sharp humor, and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A private service will be held at a later date.