Madge Marilla Akins Firzgerald 77, of Zephyrhills passed away December 16, 2024. She was born January 2, 1947 in Miami, FL to Esther and Rufus Akins. Madge was the youngest of 5 siblings: Charles, Nancy, Tom & Bob. She married Steve Fitzgerald in August 1968 after graduating from William Jennings Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee. She taught school (mostly kindergartens) for 40 years all over the country, during Steve's Air Force career. She taught in the Prince George's schools in Maryland just outside Washington, DC for 20 years, then 7 years in Hillsborough County schools. While Steve was in the Air Force, she taught in Ohio, Virginia, Texas, Georgia, Maryland, and at the American school in Okinawa, Japan. She was an avid sports enthusiast, following closely the Tampa Lightning, Washington Capitals; college basketball, especially the ACC schools; and professional football, especially the Bucs, Redskins, and Baltimore Ravens. She was the "Teacher of the Year" in several schools and systems. Madge is survived by husband, Steve; children Kendra, Brendan, Colin and Fanese; and grandchildren Anthony, Tyler, Melody, Annabella & Gabriella; Brother Charles, sister Nancy, brothers Tom & Bob Akins. She was predeceased by son, Ryan Firzgerald, (1974-2017). Visitation will take place 10:30-11:30 at Hodges Funeral Home in Zephyrhills on Friday, December 27th with a Funeral service starting at 11:30. Burial will follow at Florida national Cemetery.