James D. Madole, Jr. "Jimmy," age 77, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 21, 2020.  Jimmy was born on October 2, 1942, in Shreveport, La. to James Dudley Madole and Sara Sue Averett Madole.  Jimmy was a 1961 graduate of C.E. Byrd and a devoted member of The Elks Lodge #122 since 2011.  You could always find him there eager to help with anything that needed repairing.  He enjoyed playing pool, hanging out, harassing his friends, and caring for his cats. The Elks Lodge was his home away from home, and he dearly loved his Elks Family and Friends.  During his lifetime, he owned many businesses. He was known for building fast cars and street racing in the '60s and '70s.  In the '80s, through tireless efforts redevelopment, the new Camp Joy on Lake Bistineau emerged.  For 15 years, he lived in Kemah, Tx. and owned Mobile Marine Service, traveling to the local marinas repairing and winterizing boats. His passion for speed was deep within him, and he loved any kind of racing. Motocross bikes, dirt track cars, hot rods, street bikes, and speed boats were some of his toys he enjoyed. Meeting people from all walks of life and helping in any way he could is truly a gift. His friends often said that he never met a stranger and would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. To Jimmy, every day was a blessing.  He lived life to the fullest and wide open.  A cool southern man all about fun and helping others drew people to him.  He loved his family and often told his children how proud he was of them. Underneath his gruff, barb-wired, daredevil, surly exterior lies, one of the biggest hearts there ever was. He will be missed by all his family and friends.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father, Dudley Madole, mother, Sara Sue Madole, and his son, Matthew Walter Madole.  He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Bison (David), his son, Dustin Madole (Julia), his four grandchildren, Noah, Caleb, Loki, and Maverick. He is also survived by his sister, Lynda, and three brothers, Bill and his wife Elizabeth, Rick and his wife Martha, Ronnie, and his wife, Jill. He is also survived by his dearest and long -time best friend, Melba Shaw. Many nieces, nephews, and numerous family members and close friends, who will all miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jimmy's honor to ThinkFirst of the Ark-La-Tex (thinkfirstlouisiana.org)  or the local Elks Lodge #122 (elks.org). Both organizations promote education for our youth. Jimmy's heartfelt gratitude for these fundraisers will carry on by paying it forward in his honor.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at the Elks Lodge #122.