Madeline Eileen Hendry

Madeline Eileen Hendry, age 30, passed away on December 14, 2025. She was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, teacher, and friend whose life was defined by love for her family, her students, and those closest to her.

Maddy was born on March 9, 1995, in Columbus, Georgia. Growing up, some of Madeline’s happiest memories were made at the family lake house, where she was surrounded by water, laughter, and the people she loved most. In high school, Madeline became a cheerleader, a role that reflected her spirited nature, love of teamwork, and instinct to uplift those around her.

Maddy decided to devote her life to teaching. As a teacher, she had a rare gift for making every child feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Her classroom was filled with patience, laughter, and creativity. She believed deeply in the magic of learning, especially the kind born from a sense of wonder. Teaching was not just her profession; it was her calling, and her love for her students was evident to all who knew her. Maddy was working toward her Master’s degree and planned to pursue a PhD.

Outside the classroom, Maddy found joy in the things she loved most. She adored her cats, Salem and Pugsley, sharing a special bond with them and often saying they had more personality than most people. She loved to learn, frequently reading or watching nonfiction to fuel her imagination.

Despite her medical challenges, Maddy met every day with bravery, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the people she loved. Her greatest strength was the care she gave so freely to her family and friends, a love that shaped every part of her life.

Maddy will be remembered for her gentle heart, bright smile, and the countless lives she touched—especially the little ones who were lucky enough to call her their teacher. Her love, creativity, and spirit will live on through the memories she leaves behind and the lives she helped shape.

She is survived by her parents, Glenn and Joyce Hendry; her sister and brother-in-law, Meghan and Maxwell Mercer; her grandmother, MaryAnne Hendry; her beloved cats, Salem and Pugsley Hendry; and the many students, colleagues, friends, and family members who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Johnson Elementary School, 3700 Woodlawn Ave #7251, Columbus, GA 31904, in honor of Maddy's dedication to being an educator. They've created a registry/wishlist for school supplies if you would like to donate: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/2WDF25TF4HKBS?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ggr-subnav-share_XB66SMQEVA5HMWBYZA3J

Maddy and her family are supporters of the American Diabetes Association, donations can be made in her name to honor her memory: https://donors.diabetes.org/page/FUNEGLCZUKJ&utm_source=google_search&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=Fundraising_WeFight&utm_content=sitelink_extension&utm_term=in_memory?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22665133913&gbraid=0AAAAAD_Lb4Ym88J3FN6w-u11VbnKFRoLR

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, with a celebration of life service to follow, at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd., Columbus, Georgia, 31907.