Madeline died on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from an unexpected and sudden illness. She leaves behind her husband of 55 years, David Breidenbach, their son, Adam Breidenbach (wife, Leslie), and grandson, Elliot Breidenbach. She is also survived by her brother, Ronald Jewell (wife, Lena) of New Roads, and by her niece, Marcy Jewell Donham (husband, Stephen) of Mandeville, LA., and several other nieces, nephews and cousins in her extended family. Madeline was born in New Roads, Louisiana, on April 1, 1948, and was preceded in death by her parents, Elliott E. Jewell and Eloise Milam Jewell. Madeline was a proud 1966 graduate of Poydras High School in New Roads. She lived primarily in Baton Rouge until moving to the New Roads area in 2003. She was a wonderful, caring, and loving wife, mother, and dear friend to many people throughout her full and active life. She was talented in many fields, particularly in creating art through many styles of painting, flower arranging, and more recently rug hooking. She also enjoyed a lifetime of travel and sightseeing, having visited over 70 countries throughout the world including a 3-year residency in Japan. She was active in several local organizations and causes including animal welfare, book clubs, and by participating frequently with dear friends at social events and small group dinners. She attracted many close friends throughout her life across many locations who will fondly recall her and their time together. She especially enjoyed being with her family, and she was so very proud of them and their accomplishments. There will be a Celebration of Life for Madeline at the United Methodist Church in New Roads on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 9 to 11 AM. While Madeline adored flowers, please consider remembering her by making a donation in her memory to a favorite charity.
