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Hometown Madison
READER
SPOTLIGHT
Gary
MAZE
Why did you decide to make Madison
your home?
For seven years, my wife, Kathy, was a
resident director at Mississippi College.
Her desire to teach led us to Madison.
How long have you lived in Madison?
We’ve been in Madison for over twenty
years and have loved every minute of it!
Tell us about your family.
I’ve been married to Kathy for 36 tears. She
spends her days investing in students as a
drama, creative writing, and music teacher at
Madison Middle School. Our son, Josh, has
been the worship pastor at Highpoint Church
in Memphis for nearly ten years. His incredible
wife, Stacie, is the director of development
at Life Choices of Memphis. Karleigh, our
daughter, is married to Daniel Wagner. She
is the coordinator of development and public
relations at Sunnybrook Children’s Home in
Ridgeland. Daniel is the student and college
pastor at Fondren Church in Jackson.
What are some fun things to do in Madison
on the weekends?
We always have enjoyed movies! Hard to beat
popcorn and a good blockbuster!
Where are your three favorite places to eat
in Madison?
It’s about a seven-way tie! We eat out way too
much!
What is your favorite memory of living
in Madison?
Literally too many! One standout is the
Madison Christmas Parade for several years.
Our floats from Horizon Community Church,
where I served as the senior pastor, and our
floats from Broadmoor, where I served on
staff for ten years, made quite the musical
splash for several years. (And a few trophies,
as well!)
Share some things you enjoy doing
in your spare time.
I cook nearly all that we eat at home. For me,
cooking is a creative way to express love and
hospitality.
What are three things on your bucket list?
A long leisurely vacation with all of my family
in the Caribbean, Europe, or Hawaii. I’ve got
several books to write. And officiate my grand
grandchildren’s weddings!
Who is someone you admire and why?
So many! Dr. Joe McKeever, my pastor,
officially, for only one year during my senior
year of high school. However, I’ve observed
his life for 45 years. He’s godly, wise, joyful,
and fun….with a touch of mischief! I hope this
is said about me someday.
Where do you see yourself ten years
from now?
Investing in leaders and the people they serve.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
My childhood is an embarrassment of riches.
Too many to even begin to pick one. And yes,
I’m aware of how blessed I am. I’m so very
grateful.
If you could give us one encouraging quote,
what would it be?
“Be very careful, then, how you live–not as
unwise but wise, making the most of every
opportunity, because the days are evil.”
– Ephesians 5:15
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