MADERA - Former City of Madera Mayor and community leader Margaret “Marge” M. Medellin passed away on March 31, 2024, at 86. Marge was a lifetime resident of Madera, California, born October 8, 1937, to Mary and James Martinez. On July 1, 1956, she started working at the Madera County Office of Education until her retirement in December 2002. As a child, Marge discovered her love of reading and learning new things, which led to her forty-six-year career at MCOE.

Marge’s political journey spanned from 1978 to 2002. She campaigned in 1977, winning her first term as the First Councilwoman in the City of Madera, California. She won her second term in 1982 and was elected Mayor on April 20th, making history as California's First Hispanic Female Mayor. Margaret Medellin served the residents of Madera and the northern and southern communities of the Central Valley for over 40+ years. Her passion for learning, listening, and having a get-the-job-done attitude all contributed to her love of helping people.

She married Victor M. Medellin in July 1957. Together, they raised four children: Paul, Rick, Andy, and Teri. They were blessed with 35 years of marriage before his passing in 1991.