I was born in Buford, GA at the old Hutchins Memorial Hospital. I was delivered by Dr. Cecil Miller. I do not live inside the City of Buford but have always lived within five miles of downtown. Growing up my family always did the majority of our business in Buford. My parents were Bonnie and Evelyn Higgins Maddox. I am a graduate of North Gwinnet High School, class of 1977 and Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service. In 1979 I married Karen Reed, a graduate of Buford, High School, class of 1978. We have two daughters, Amanda and Michael. I have worked in the funeral industry the past 33 years. I live on the property where I grew up.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I grew up in a large family of eight children. Most of them still live in the area. My two daughters work with me at the funeral home.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My wife and I own and have operated Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel for the past 23 years. Prior to that I was a Cabinet Maker. Help people navigate through very difficult times.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Pappa Jack’s and Ted’s Montana Grill
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
My entire life.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Mr. Glenn Jones. He was an educator touching three generations of my family. He last served as Principal of Harmony Elementary School.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Western United States. Always liked the big sky country.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The original Walking Tall movie and Andy Griffith Show.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Trust your gut.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Own a restored classic Mustang.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Eagles
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Jay’s Drug Store.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Tyler Perry. I would love to hear more of his insight about society. Ted’s Montana Grill.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Feeling of community.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still working with a little extra time off.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I live in a small town. Not much people don’t already know.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
North Georgia Mountains
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
November, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Day
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Loving Family.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife, Karen.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
A fireplace in the fall and coffee.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safety, Family, Love.
