Mary Hale Madge

1934 - 2025

Mary Hale Madge

April 27, 1934 - November 1, 2025

Mary Hale Madge was born in Christiansburg, Virginia on April 27, 1934, to Hilda Wilson Hale and Samuel Joab Hale. Mary passed away peacefully at Westminster Canterbury in Richmond, Virginia on November 1, 2025.

Mary's life reflected genuine compassion and care for others, love for her family, and a strong sense of duty. Working for the Virginia Department of Social Services for over 30 years, Mary rose to numerous leadership positions, an uncommon feat for a woman during that time. After retirement she was a liaison for AARP at the State Capitol and volunteer at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Mary was a member of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America and active in the Goochland County community and its social support services.

Mary was a member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Richmond, serving on the altar guild. She enjoyed playing bridge and mahjong and especially enjoyed her years at her summer home on Edisto Island with her beloved sister and family.

Most of all, Mary was a hardworking, sensitive, fun-loving, generous, loyal lady who loved her family and community. She maintained long-time friendships with several friends from Crystal Springs Elementary School and the "Haughty-Taughty" group in Roanoke. She graduated from Jefferson High School in Roanoke, received a B.A. from Hollins College in 1956 and received her master's in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University (RPI) in 1966.

In her time living at Westminster Canterbury, Mary spent many years enjoying an active life in independent living and served on the Westminster board. The family is deeply thankful for the tremendous care she received, especially during her last few months.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Gordon Madge; sister, Betty Lilly; brother-in-law, Phillip Lilly; brother, Robert Hale; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Hale. Left to cherish her memory are nephews Tom Lilly (Sandy) of Princeton, WV, Mike Lilly of Bluefield, WV, David Lilly of Slatyfork, WV, John Lilly (Susan) of Greensboro, NC, Clay Hale (Elizabeth) of McLean, VA, Parker Hale (Sarah) of Richmond, VA, and niece Cindy Gillespie (Bill) of Tazewell, VA. Mary's great-nieces and nephews will also greatly miss her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Westminster Canterbury Foundation or St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Richmond. A private graveside service will be held at Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond.