The Alabama education community is mourning the loss of a dedicated and beloved leader, Cliff Maddox, who passed away recently. Known for his passion for education, mentorship, and service, Cliff leaves behind a remarkable legacy shaped by decades of commitment to students, educators, and schools across the state. His passing marks the end of an era for the many communities where he served with heart, wisdom, and purpose.
Cliff Maddox was a seasoned educator and administrator, having held leadership positions in several Alabama schools. He most recently served as principal of Reeltown High School, where his guidance and dedication were deeply appreciated by students, parents, and faculty alike. Cliff brought a calm and thoughtful leadership style to every role he held, always focused on what was best for the young people entrusted to his care.
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Before his time at Reeltown, Cliff served as principal at Highland Home School, Satsuma High School, and Elba Junior Senior High School. In each school, he left a lasting mark, implementing policies that prioritized student success and supporting teachers in building positive learning environments. Cliff had a gift for connecting with people—students felt seen and heard under his leadership, and his colleagues respected his experience and integrity.
Cliff was also an accomplished coach, having served as the head football coach at Carroll High School in Ozark, Alabama. On the field, he was a mentor and motivator, instilling values of discipline, sportsmanship, and hard work in his players. His influence extended beyond the game, teaching life lessons that many of his former players carry with them to this day.
Education was not just Cliff’s career—it was his calling. His own educational path began in Highland Home, Alabama, where he graduated from Highland Home School. He went on to study at Jacksonville State University, Troy University, and Auburn University Montgomery. These institutions helped shape his philosophy on leadership and learning, and he remained a proud alumnus throughout his life.
Cliff’s roots in Highland Home remained a significant part of his identity, even as he built his life and career in Auburn, Alabama. He often spoke of his upbringing with pride, drawing on those early experiences as the foundation for his work in education. He also returned to Highland Home School later in life—not just as an administrator, but as someone deeply invested in giving back to the place that gave him so much.
Those who knew Cliff remember him as a man of great integrity, warmth, and quiet strength. He had a natural ability to lead, to uplift others, and to inspire positive change. Whether navigating the challenges of a school year, cheering from the sidelines, or offering a word of encouragement to a struggling student, Cliff brought his full heart to everything he did.
He was more than a principal or coach—he was a mentor, a role model, and a friend to many. His influence stretched far beyond the classroom walls, and his passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Cliff Maddox’s legacy will live on in the students he encouraged, the schools he led, and the communities he strengthened. His dedication to education and to young people across Alabama will not be forgotten. As friends, colleagues, and former students remember him, they celebrate a life well-lived and a man who truly made a difference.
