Madeleine (Maddie) Carol Liston

To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.

Obituary

Celebrating the Life of Madeleine (Maddie)

It is with heavy hearts and joyful memories that we celebrate the life of Madeleine, best known to everyone as Maddie, who has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and a touch of cheekiness that brightened every room she entered.

Maddie was a woman who navigated life with an open heart and a rare, non-judgmental grace. She had a unique gift for taking people exactly as they were, meeting every stranger with a smile and leaving them as a friend.

Family and Heart

At the center of Maddie’s world was her family. She was an amazing mother to Jane and Pete, whom she shared with her first husband, Tony. Her children were her greatest pride. Maddie was their constant champion, providing a "friendly ear" and unwavering encouragement as they chased their dreams. The family home was also famously shared for many years with their cherished dog, Sweep, who was every bit a part of the clan. Bruno came next as a huge part of Maddie and Eric's lives and more recently, Jack the Labrador was the focus of Eric & Maddie's home.

In her later years, Maddie shared nearly three happy decades of marriage with her husband, Eric Purdon, building a life filled with mutual support and companionship.

A Career of Connection

Maddie’s professional life was defined by her diligence and the deep bonds she formed with those around her. She initially worked as a secretary and after having had children, she started her own business offering secretarial services. Maddie always enjoyed having a career and after her divorce, she moved to Coventry to work for Jim Doran Hand controls, where she meet her husband, Eric. Maddie returned to Stevenage to care for her Mother, Kitty Griffin. After Kitty died, Maddie went on to work for NA Carpentry, where she met some fantastic people who became life long friends. Maddie’s hardworking attitude, business acumen and kindness meant she was always a much loved member of the companies she worked with.

A Spirit of Resilience

Though her health declined in her final years, Maddie’s spirit remained untouched. She met every challenge with a smile that never faded and a kindness that remained fierce and protective. She taught those around her that grace isn't the absence of struggle, but the ability to find joy within it.

Maddie leaves behind a void that can only be filled by the echoes of her laughter and the lessons she taught us about accepting others without hesitation. She was a woman who loved deeply, supported endlessly, and made the world a little warmer just by being in it.

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Jane

Peter

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Jane

Peter

Madeleine (Maddie) Liston

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