Willie Madden

William “Willie” James Madden Jr., St. Thomas High School class of 1982, was a Houston native, University of Texas graduate, and Kappa Sigma fraternity member who built a career defined by community and the restaurant business. After working at The Rex Group as a sales associate and general manager from 1990 to 1994, Willie launched Texadelphia, growing it to five locations over 17 years.

In 2019, a chance encounter with Pizzitola’s managing partner Tim Taylor led Willie to purchase the legendary Shepherd Drive restaurant from fellow STHS alumnus Jerry Pizzitola ’60, with business partner James Maida ’85. Willie set out to preserve Houston’s oldest BBQ institution for future generations, saying “My interest is really in keeping a Houston institution around for my kids and grandkids.” He kept all employees, preserved the iconic ribs and sauce, and began upgrading the facilities — repaving the parking lot, adding security lighting, and replacing worn ceiling tiles.

An active member of the St. Thomas community, the Catholic Church, and countless civic organizations, Willie was known for his caring leadership, contagious laugh, and ability to make everyone feel special. He passed away suddenly on January 16, 2021 at the age of 56. His reception was held at Pizzitola’s BBQ on Shepherd Drive. He is survived by his sons Marshall and Josh.