Madkins Remembered with Water Tower Dedication

The water tower near the square was dedicated on Wednesday in memory of city employee John Madkins.

Stevenson's son, D'Marius (left), widow, Ruby, and daughter, Angel, hold the dedication resolution at the ceremony.

OXFORD–Friends and family of John Stevenson Madkins, Jr. gathered around the large, blue water tower near the square on Wednesday in honor of the longtime Oxford public works employee. Madkins, who passed away in November at the age of 66, gave 47 years of service to the city of Oxford. He was well known for his vast skill and knowledge for maintaining the city and properties of Oxford residents.

At the dedication, city officials spoke highly of Madkins, praising him for his contributions to keeping Oxford's water clean. Oxford Water Department superintendent Chad McLarty spoke of his late coworker. He remembered Madkins as a friend and mentor, but also a wealth of knowledge. Oxford mayor Pat Patterson was also present at the dedication. He read the resolution which officially dedicated the water tower to Madkins.

A large, stone monument now sits in front of the water tower, denoting the dedication to Madkins. His legacy of providing clean water now lives on through the dedicated water tower.