Our History
Our heritage began 100 years ago when I. M. "Book" Phillips started the funeral home in 1913, in the back of a store in Ashdown. Six years later, Mr. Phillips sold the funeral business to William Grant Hunter. Another six years past, and I. M. "Book" Phillips bought the funeral business back in 1925. The Phillips family owned and operated the Ashdown funeral home until 1966. On August 5, 1966, Sheldon Madden purchased the funeral home. The Madden Funeral Home has been owned and operated by the Madden family for three generations. Today, Jack Madden, Jr. is continuing the successful family tradition of his grandfather and father by owning and operating Madden Funeral Home.
In the early days of the funeral home, a person could pay for their burial insurance premiums with chickens, eggs, vegetables, and other things of value. That is no longer the custom, our funeral home continues to believe in fair prices. Our long-standing tradition has been to provide the best facilities and service at a reasonable price. We know the importance of helping each family plan the funeral they want, within their own budget. Having the very best does not have to cost the most.
With decades of combined experience, we can help you create a lasting tribute to your loved one that frilly reflects their unique life and fulfills your family's needs and traditions. Our professional team is dedicated to helping you share the stories that make this community great. We provide a place to cry, to laugh, and most importantly, to begin the healing process that follows the loss of a loved one. We take pride in providing you with a reputation of trust and a promise of professional service presented in a caring manner.
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Raeann Hagan Funeral Director/Embalmer Apprentice
Raeann is a dedicated funeral director and embalmer, deeply rooted in her local community. Having grown up in the town, she understands the unique bonds that tie its residents together, and this connection allows her to serve families with a level of care and empathy that only someone who truly knows the area can provide. Raeann takes great pride in helping families honor their loved ones with dignity and respect, often going above and beyond to ensure each service reflects the individual’s life and legacy. Whether it’s arranging a traditional memorial or offering personal touches that make each service special, Raeann’s compassion and professionalism shine through in everything she does. Her work is not just a job it’s a calling, and as a local, she is both a trusted figure in times of loss and a steady source of support when the community needs it most.
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Tina Phillips Funeral Director/Office Manager/Pre-Need Specialist
Tina has been an essential part of the Madden family business since 1987, serving with unwavering dedication as an office manager, funeral director, and pre-need specialist. Her extensive experience has made her a trusted cornerstone of the business and a familiar face in the community. As office manager, Tina ensures that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, from managing schedules to overseeing important paperwork. As a funeral director, she brings deep empathy and professionalism, helping families navigate their loss with grace and understanding. In her role as a pre-need specialist, she assists individuals in planning for the future, making sure their final wishes are met. Tina’s long tenure with the Madden Family business speaks to her commitment not only to the company but also to the families she serves. Her experience, combined with her heartfelt dedication, makes her an invaluable part of the Madden legacy.
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Jack Madden Jr Owner/Funeral Director/Embalmer
Jack Madden Jr. is the owner, funeral director, and embalmer at Madden Funeral Home, a role he was born into as part of a family deeply rooted in the funeral service industry. Growing up surrounded by the legacy of care and service, Jack learned the importance of compassion and professionalism from an early age. His grandfather, Sheldon Madden, established the funeral home, and Jack Jr. took up the mantle, ensuring the family business continued its tradition of providing thoughtful, dignified services to the community. With years of experience, Jack Jr. is not only dedicated to preserving the legacy of Madden Funeral Home but also to adapting to modern needs while honoring the rich history of the profession. His personal touch and commitment to the community have made Madden Funeral Home a trusted name for generations.
