Madison Janski Matthews was born in Dallas, TX on April 4, 1994 and died suddenly on June 8. Madi grew up in Austin. She moved to Austin with her parents Stephanie and Jonathan when she was one year old. She is a graduate of Austin High School. In May 2018 she graduated from Texas State University where she majored in Psychology and minored in International Studies.
Madi loved the outdoors; especially in Zilker Park, taking her dog Selma to Barking Springs, and kayaking on Lady Bird Lake. The musical diversity of her Spotify lists were awe-inspiring. She was a huge fan of Veracruz tacos and Starbucks cake pops.
Deeply empathetic, Madi cared tremendously about that which was truly worth caring about and did not give a hoot about petty things. Keenly observant from her earliest days, she had a wonderful gift for language, able to beautifully communicate her creative thoughts equally well aloud and on the page.
Madi's maternal grandmother lovingly called her an imp when she was little. Growing up she was a tomboy, and avid reader, climber of trees, excellent doodler, and outstanding soccer player. Her sense of humor was unique, sharp, and distinctly her. So much so, that her family referred to her quips as Madi-isms.
She brought that one-of-a-kind energy and element of fun to all family gatherings. She especially loved spending time with her cousins and valued those moments even more as they grew up together.
Madi studied abroad in Jordan. While in the Middle East she visited Palestine and Israel. She was especially impressed by the ruins of Petra. The journey inspired her as she explored the history, culture, customs, people and food, making new friends along the way.
During her involvement with Urban Roots, she developed a keen interest in sustainable farming and was a volunteer at Agua Dulce Farms.
She loved and was loved deeply. She is survived by her parents Stephanie Matthews and Jonathan Matthews, her little sister Charlotte, her maternal grandparents Jan and Ernest "Jud" Finney, her paternal grandparents Tom and Charlotte Matthews, and her dogs Selma and Holly, all of whom survive her. She was preceded in death by her beloved dog Logan. Madison also leaves behind many other members of her large family and a host of adoring friends.
A Celebration of Madi's Life
Wednesday, June 13
2:00PM
Mercury Hall
615 Cardinal Lane
Austin, TX 78704
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Urban Roots
A burial service for the immediate family will follow on June 14.
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