Mr. Jeffrey "Bo Diddley" Wade Machen's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mr. Jeffrey "Bo Diddley" Wade Machen, 72, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 am at the New Providence Baptist Church. Chris Crumbley and Tim Green will officiate. Burial will follow in the New Providence Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Jeffrey “Bo Diddley” Machen, 72, of Alexander City, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery. He was born on February 23, 1954, in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, to Dilmus C. Machen and Jessie Goss Machen. He was a devoted Christian and an active member of New Providence Baptist Church, where his faith was an important part of his life and a source of strength to him and those around him.
Mr. Machen was a proud graduate of Benjamin Russell High School, Class of 1972, and later attended Alexander City Junior College. He was known throughout his life as a hardworking and dependable man who took great pride in providing for his family and doing a job well. He spent 27 years with Russell Corporation, where he earned the respect of his coworkers through his steady work ethic and commitment. He was also a master electrician and owned and operated Machen Electric for several years, using his skills and knowledge to help others and built a reputation for being handy, capable, and trustworthy. He also served the community for many years as a member of the Alexander City Rescue Squad.
Bo Diddley was a man who enjoyed the simple blessings of life and found joy in the world around him. He loved gardening and spending time outdoors, where he could appreciate the beauty of nature. He was a devoted Alabama Crimson Tide sports fan and followed his team with enthusiasm. He especially cherished time with his family, and his love for his wife, children, and those closest to him. He also had a special affection for his feline friends, who brought him comfort and companionship. Those who knew him will remember him as a loving, friendly, and handy man whose presence made life brighter for others.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Patricia A. Machen; his son, Josh W. Machen; his daughter, Jennifer M. Machen; and his sister, Jane (Tim) Blankenship. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dilmus C. Machen and Jessie Goss Machen, and by his brother, Joey Machen. His family will forever treasure the memories of his kindness, his steady nature, and the love he shared so freely throughout his life.
Jeffrey “Bo Diddley” Machen will be remembered as a faithful husband, a loving father, a devoted brother, and a man of strong character. He lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, and love for his family and friends. His legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will be cherished with gratitude and affection.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jeffrey Wade Machen.
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