Joseph James Madison III

Born on May 9, 1939, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Joe was the beloved son of Joseph Madison Jr. and Anna F. (Scott) Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lawrence S. Madison.

Joe was a man of unwavering faith, devoted family values, and dedicated service to his country and community. He proudly served in the United States Coast Guard for more than eight years, carrying with him the principles of duty, integrity, and commitment throughout his life.

A longtime resident of Spencer, Massachusetts, before later making his home in North Fort Myers, Florida, Joe became deeply involved in the organizations and causes he cared about. He was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and the Knights of Columbus, attaining both Third and Fourth Degree membership and remaining active since 1969. While living in Spencer, he was also an assessor and owned and operated a successful travel agency for many years.

Faith was the cornerstone of Joe’s life. In 1993, Joe became Business Manager of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Following the 1994 merger of Our Lady of the Rosary Church and St. Mary's Church, he continued serving as Business Manager of the newly formed Mary, Queen of the Rosary Parish. He faithfully dedicated himself to the parish community until his retirement in 2000, when he moved to Florida.

He was a founding member of St. Therese Parish in North Fort Myers, serving as its first Business Manager and dedicating countless hours to the church he loved. Joe also served as a Mass Captain, Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, and Homebound Minister, bringing comfort, compassion, and spiritual support to many. His commitment to his parish and his faith community touched countless lives.

Above all else, Joe cherished his family. He shared a remarkable 65-year marriage with the love of his life, Marcia Claire Madison, whose partnership, devotion, and love were the foundation of a beautiful life together.

Joe is lovingly survived by his wife, Marcia; his children, Shaunna Knuth (Christopher), Kellie Mera (Fernando), and Joseph “Jay” Madison IV (Heather); and his treasured grandchildren, Brian Knuth (Peter), Robert Knuth

(Carley), and Taylor Mera. He is also survived by his brother, Don E. Madison (Peg), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

Joe embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm. He and Marcia shared a love of travel and were blessed to explore much of the world together, including Europe, Asia, the South Pacific, and The Holy Land, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Those who knew Joe will remember his steady presence, generous spirit, dedication to service, and deep love for both his family and his faith. He lived a life marked by purpose, kindness, and devotion. As his family reflects on his legacy, they find comfort in knowing that the two most important things in Joe’s life—his family and his faith—remained at the center of everything he did.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Therese Church, a place that held a special place in Joe’s heart.

Though he will be profoundly missed, Joe’s example of faith, service, love, and commitment will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Services will be at 11 am on Friday, June 26, 2026 at St. Therese Catholic Church, 20115 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers.