Billy Scott Maddox, 53, of Emporia, formerly Atchison and Wathena, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, October 29. He was born on February 5, 1970, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Allen Maddox and Elaine (Deeken) Maddox.

Born with Down Syndrome during a time when it was seen as a family tragedy and individuals with developmental disabilities were often institutionalized, Billy was so much more than a label. To his family and those fortunate enough to know him, he was a beloved son, a cherished brother, and a true friend.

Billy's smile could light up any room; he was funny, kind and gentle. While he couldn't speak or communicate in the traditional sense he developed his own way of communicating and those around him understood him loud and clear.

Music was a constant source of joy for Billy. He could spend hours cross-legged, immersed in music - even if it was holiday tunes all year round, much to his family's amusement (or dismay). Going for drives also made him happy. It didn't matter where he was going; as long as he was a passenger, he was content. He always expected to ride shotgun.

Change was hard for Billy; he was a creature of habit and routine.  As he grew to be a man and the world changed around him, Achievement Services of Northeast Kansas (ASNEK), where he lived for over 30 years, provided him with stability, familiarity, love, and care. It became his second family, and he found happiness there. Nancy, his targeted case manager, and the rest of the ASNEK staff were constants in his life, providing reassurance and support. Billy cherished them, and they reciprocated his love. Most recently it was the staff at Quest Services in Emporia, KS – especially his nurse Cheryl and Loretta, the Director, that provided him the support and love he needed.

Billy is preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his brother Christopher of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has been cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Rescue Crew, a non-profit animal rescue organization founded by his brother, at 3500 Vicksburg Ln N., #220, Plymouth, MN 55447.