Madelene Britnell

September 12, 1925 - March 26, 2022

Eunice Madelene Vandiver Britnell passed from this life on Saturday morning, March 26, 2022, at the age of 96. She was born in Franklin County, Alabama, on September 12, 1925, to Thomas Andrew Vandiver and Ora Ethel Copeland. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ollie Eugene Britnell, and siblings Eloise Saint, Elizabeth Vandiver, Charles Vandiver, and Tom Vandiver. She is survived by two sons, Olen Britnell and wife Jane, Keith Britnell and wife Mary Jo, six grandchildren, Barry Britnell and wife Tabatha, Bonny Black and husband Daryl, Barbara Jo Webb and husband Norm, Lauren McNatt and husband Jeremy, Julie Singleton and husband Shawn, and Cody Britnell, twelve great-grandchildren and two sisters, Ruth Credille and Geraldine Mason. Madelene was married to Eugene Britnell on March 14, 1942. Eugene was encouraged to become a minister of the gospel, and in 1950 they moved to work with churches in Arkansas. In 1987, they returned "home" to Alabama, and spent the remainder of their marriage and church work in Franklin and Limestone Counties. In addition to preaching, Eugene served as an elder with the Arch Street Church of Christ in Little Rock, Arkansas, for 12 years, and with the Hays Mill Church of Christ in Athens, Alabama, for 6 years. Madelene complemented his work by teaching classes, assisting families, and extending hospitality to many guests to their home. In addition, Madelene traveled extensively with Eugene to visit other churches across the country. She was a faithful and dedicated Christian. There will be a private graveside service on Tuesday, March 29, at the Athens City Cemetery. The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Sacred Selections, 4144 Shores Road, Murfreesboro, TN 37128. Sacred Selections’ mission is to provide financial assistance to Christian couples who are committed to adopting young children.