Madison Janelle Hayes was born on July 25, 2007, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to her loving parents, Josh and Brittany Hayes. She was a devoted sister to Morgan and Jackson, bringing joy and laughter into their lives. Madison's home was always filled with the warmth of family and the playful companionship of her cherished dogs, Lily, and Rip.
Madison, affectionately known as Maddie, made an unforgettable entrance into the world. Her birth was a stubborn one, but when she arrived, it was as if a light shone down on her—a moment that made it clear she was destined for greatness. From the very beginning, Maddie radiated kindness, humility, and a grace that reflected her inner beauty. She lived big, loved even bigger, and shone brightly because she knew she was profoundly blessed. She cherished a family who loved her more than life itself, friends who poured love into her, and a God who gave her a life that was nothing short of spectacular.
Maddie spent the first six years of her life in Colorado, surrounded by the love of her family. In 2013, the Hayes family moved to Williston, North Dakota, where they created lasting memories together before settling in Edmond, Oklahoma, in 2015 her family made their home in the Highland Trails neighborhood in Logan County, where neighbors truly became family for the Hayes family. Maddie's roots in Oklahoma grew deep as she embraced her community and the connections she found there.
Maddie had a special connection to her childhood blanket, lovingly handcrafted by her grandmother. She called it "Nuggy" and never went anywhere without it. In one unforgettable instance, she even convinced her best friend Jaylea to embark on a round trip, driving four hours late at night—after a full day of playing volleyball—just to retrieve it. That story alone encapsulates Maddie's determination, her deep attachment to those she loved, and her ability to inspire unwavering loyalty in her friends.
Volleyball was Maddie's greatest passion, and she shared her love for the sport with her little sister, Morgan. A gifted athlete, Maddie made the varsity volleyball team at Sequoyah Middle School in both 7th and 8th grade. She continued to shine at Edmond North High School, where she played for the Huskies, contributing to their impressive achievement as 6A State Runner-up during her senior season.
Maddie also competed at an elite level in club volleyball, playing for Oklahoma Peak Performance for six years and traveling across the country. Her 15s season was standout, with her team taking 5th place at AAU Nationals in Orlando, a fond memory that her parents shared with her. Maddie's love for her teammates was boundless, and she was always one of their biggest cheerleaders, embodying encouragement, and team spirit both on and off the court.
Maddie's love for her community extended to her dreams for the future. Shortly after the start of her senior year, she was admitted to The University of Oklahoma on scholarship, with plans to study sports psychology, a dream she carried in her heart from her "Poppy" whom she lost last June.
In her short but extraordinary life, Maddie also indulged her sense of adventure, traveling the country to visit vibrant cities such as New York, Washington D.C, Destin, and New Orleans. She even ventured beyond the U.S., joining her family on a cruise to Mexico. Maddie had dreams of exploring the entire world, and her adventurous spirit was as boundless as her joy for life.
Maddie's faith in her Lord Jesus Christ was central to her life. For her 11th birthday, she asked her parents for the greatest gift of all — to be baptized. She was active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, church retreats, and events at Life Church, where she found joy and purpose in her faith community.
In addition to her parents and siblings, Maddie is survived by her grandmother, her two grandfathers, six aunts, six uncles, and twelve cousins. She also leaves behind countless friends and a legacy of love that will forever be remembered.
Maddie's radiant smile and heartfelt hugs could brighten anyone's day. She was a selfless soul who always placed the needs of others before her own, and she was a friend to all who knew her. She graced this world with her vibrant spirit, her joyful sense of humor and her kind heart. Not only did her bright aura shine through in everything she did, but she also left a memorable impression with her signature, comforting scent of vanilla sweetness that mirrored her heart.
With the time she had on this earth, Maddie made the most of every moment. Her life was a testament to living with love, purpose, and gratitude for all the blessings around her. She will forever be remembered as a shining light, whose impact on those who loved her will endure for generations.
A celebration of life will be held at 10:00am on March 26, 2025, at Life Church, 4200 E. 2nd St., Edmond, Oklahoma.
The streaming link is below for guests that can't attend but want to join in the Celebration of Madison's life.