Josette Simone (Cella) Maddison

Josette Simone Maddison, 83, of Idaho Falls, passed away April 13, 2025, at home following a long journey with cancer.

Josette was born June 17, 1941, in Paris, France, to Louis and Marthe Cella, during the Nazi occupation. Her early life was shaped by resilience and determination, and she carried that spirit throughout her entire life.

At the age of 13, Josette and her family immigrated to the United States, settling in Tacoma, Washington. Though she spoke little English, Josette quickly excelled in her studies. Graduating with honors from Stadium High School and earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Puget Sound.

There she met the love of her life, David Wesley Maddison. They were married in 1963 and recently celebrated 61 years of marriage. Following a time at Washington State University, where Josette earned a Master’s Degree in Chemistry, David and Josette moved to Idaho Falls. This is where they made their home and raised their children.

Josette was passionate about education and service. She was a devoted preschool teacher at the Presbyterian Preschool for many years and tutored students in chemistry and french. The impact she left on her students continues to be felt today. Accomplishments of her children and her students, even in adulthood, brought her joy.

She was an accomplished gardener and earned her Master Gardener Certification. Her skill and passion for growing things are evident not only at her own home but also at the First Presbyterian Church, where she was a member for over 50 years. Josette was also a dedicated volunteer at the Idaho Falls Zoo where her favorite role was staffing an Exploration Station, reflecting her passion for education.

Josette is survived by her husband, David Maddison of Idaho Falls, ID; daughter, Christine (Herve) Mann of Springfield, OR; daughter, Lisette Maddison of Pullman, WA; son, Andrew (Alina) Maddison of the UAE; son, Samuel (Nikki) Bays of Idaho Falls, ID; and 8 young people who call her Grandma Jo. Her legacy of love, wisdom, and dedication lives on in them and in the many people she touched throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Marthe Cella; and sisters, Janine Hopkins, and Evelyne Armstrong.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 19, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Idaho Falls, 325 Elm Street. The family will visit with friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the services. There will be a reception immediately following the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society , Nature Conservancy , or the Idaho Falls Zoo . Josette supported many causes and donations to any organization done with a cheerful heart will honor her.

The family gratefully thanks the care provided to Josette by the Teton Cancer Institute and Hospice of Eastern Idaho and the support from the members of the First Presbyterian Church.