Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kilpatrick Funeral Home - Ruston on Sep. 18, 2025.
Michael "Grant" Madden, 21, a beloved son, brother, grandson and friend and dedicated service member of the LA National Guard, was taken from us far too soon on September 15, 2025 at his home in the company of his brother and sister-in-law.
Grant's life, though far too brief, was marked by an unwavering dedication to duty and a vibrant spirit and smile that touched everyone he met. Born on February 11, 2004, in
Ruston, LA, to Ryan Madden and Charlette Hilton, he was raised with a knowledge of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, a deep sense of patriotism and a dedication to service. From a young age, he was known for his love and care for all his family and friends, a mischievous grin, and a love of adventure.
Following his graduation from Ruston High in 2023, Grant continued his soon to be future career in the Louisiana National Guard. He proudly served as a Counter Drug Analyst and quickly immersed himself in the program, seeking out training and trying to learn everything he could about his chosen field. He was blessed to work with a group of men in West Monroe of various law enforcement agencies who took him under their wing and encouraged his involvement in all of their enforcement operations. Grant was committed to learn all he could, in order to assist his co-workers and team. His devotion to his chosen profession, his friends, his family members and his country was absolute, a quality that earned him the deep respect of those who knew him and called him their friend.
Beyond his career, Grant was a fun-loving individual who enjoyed spending time with his closest friends, the "founding fathers", playing a round of golf, kayaking, white water rafting and passionately researching the topic of his current interest. He had a talent for befriending others and was always up for an adventure with family. He had plans to further his chosen career, further his education and advance in the ranks of the Louisiana National Guard. Though his dreams were left unfulfilled, the love and joy he brought into the lives of his family and friends will be cherished forever.
Grant is survived by his father, Ryan Madden and wife Lisa, his Mother Charlette Hilton and husband Jay; his brother Garrett Madden and wife Drew, step-brothers, Mason and Ryder, all living in
Ruston, LA; His Grandparents, Ray and Diane Madden of Ruston, and Charles and Pam McGuire of Fellowship Community; Uncles and Aunts, Wes Madden and wife Leah, Matthew Madden and wife Alex, and Melissa Strange and husband Chuck. He also leaves behind, his closest friends Gabe, Jackson, Moises, Lane, Xander, R.J., Josh, Aaron, Landry Grace, and Amaree. His memory will also be treasured by his numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and other family members.
Services and remembrance
Visitation will take place at 4:00 p.m. Till 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, at First Baptist Ruston. A Funeral service with full military honors will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21 at First Baptist Ruston. Interment will follow at Kilpatrick's Memorial Gardens on Hwy. 544, just West of Ruston.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Grant's memory to a newly established Scholarship fund at Ruston High School for students who are members of the Radio/Broadcast and Golf team.
We grieve because we love. Grant's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. We are confident that Jesus Christ will use his untimely death for His glory and as a testimony to others to pursue Christ and relationship with Him. Tell your children daily you love them and encourage them to follow Christ.
Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com