Memories...

The Way We Were

A Tribute to Our Beloved Marlin Family Gone Too Soon

James A. Madison Senior High School – Class of 1985

 

It all started in 1981–82, when we walked into those halls of James A. Madison Senior High School — wide-eyed, full of promise, and ready to write the first pages of our story. We laughed in crowded hallways, learned life lessons in and out of the classroom, shared dreams at pep rallies and prom nights, and stood tall on graduation day — young and hopeful, standing at the edge of our futures. We broke and set records and will forever stand in the history books for winning state,  40-0 and making records of scoring 71 points in a single basketball game, our devastating "Sleepy D" and incomparable '357 football greats, just to name a few.

 

Through four unforgettable years, we became more than classmates — we became a family. We built bonds that time could never break. And though life took us in many directions — careers, families, joys, and struggles — this class, this time, this family... stayed with us.

 

As we gather now to celebrate 40 years since those youthful days, we feel the joy of reunion — but also the quiet ache of remembrance. Because some of our brightest lights no longer walk among us. Their laughter no longer rings out, but their memory lives on in every story we tell, every song we hear, every heartbeat that skips when we think of them.

 

We pause to honor those who have gone before us — not with sorrow, but with gratitude. For the way they touched our lives. For the years we shared. For the way we were.

 

Their absence is deeply felt. But their spirits are forever a part of us — forever Class of ’85.

 

So, we remember.

We cherish.

And we celebrate — them, and us.

The way we were... and the love that remains.

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                               In Loving Memory

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Cheryl Smith
1967 – July 2025

Cheryl Smith was born in [City/State] and grew up in the [Neighborhood name] neighborhood.

Madison Years:

• Cheryl proudly marched as a member of the renowned Light Brigade from [year] to [year].

• She also cheered on the sidelines as a dedicated varsity cheerleader.

• Cheryl was loved by many and will always be remembered for her infectious smile and warm spirit.

After Graduation:

• In [year], Cheryl married and later welcomed one daughter, [Hannah], who was the light of her life.​

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Coach Maurice Davis
195– 2024

Coach Maurice “Coach D” Davis was born in Houston, Texas. He came to Madison in 197[?] as a metal shop teacher and soon found his true calling — coaching girls’ basketball.

Coach D inspired generations of students with his tough love, steady guidance, and unwavering belief that greatness comes from discipline and heart. His legacy lives on in every player he mentored and every life he touched.