Madison Marie-Starr Annen

Madison Marie-Starr Annen, age 24, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026, at home in Mesquite, Texas surrounded by her mother, Jamie. Maddie was a beacon of joy and warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her radiant smile was infectious, and she lit up every room she was in. Maddie was born to Amanda Denton and Stephen Annen in Mesquite, Texas. She gained her beloved “Mama” and guardian in 2004, and the two remained inseparable until Maddie’s passing.

From infancy, Madison’s health struggles were a major challenge. Doctors struggled to figure out what caused health issues in her early childhood, but in 2009 Madison was formally diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome. Stephen and Jamie worked tirelessly to help Madison in the constant battle against her declining health. Even while she was sick, Maddie always had a smile on her face. Maddie was smart, not allowing her diagnosis to define her. She learned sign language from a young age and was able to communicate this way, but she also would say a few special words, like “Mama.”

When someone she knew walked into her line of sight, she would light up and become overwhelmed with joy. Maddie was a people watcher. She enjoyed watching TV and had a crush on her favorite character, “Kid Danger”. Music and dancing brought her immense happiness. Monkeys and baby dolls were always in her hands, and Milo the Chihuahua stayed by her side at all times.

Left to cherish Madison’s memory are her “mama”, Jamie Annen; her father, Stephen Annen; her birth mother, Amanda Denton; her beloved brother, Mason Wade Gaines; her grandparents, Curt and Linda Aemisegger, Christopher Annen, Bobby and Tammy Denton, Sondra Hall and Carol Carrier; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family. All of Madison’s family and friends will forever treasure the moments spent with her and hold her memory close.

Maddie’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. Her light will continue to shine on, inspiring all to live with the same grace, kindness, and unwavering spirit that she so effortlessly shared with the world.