Madelyn McKinley Nessen

Madelyn McKinley Nessen (“Maddie”)

With profound sadness and immeasurable love, we announce the passing of Madelyn McKinley Nessen, affectionately known as Maddie, who passed away on June 1, 2026, in Smithfield, Utah, at the age of 14.

Born on October 17, 2011, Maddie entered the world five weeks early. Even then, she could not wait to begin her life's adventure. From her earliest days, she was independent, fearless, and impossible to tie down. Maddie approached life with boundless curiosity, a free spirit, and a sense of adventure that inspired everyone around her.

As a child, she seemed determined to do things her own way. She skipped crawling and went straight to walking. She was in no rush to speak, waiting until she was three and a half years old before sharing her voice with the world. Once she did, she quickly became known for her quick wit, mischievous humor, and ability to make those around her laugh.

In 2015, Maddie and her family moved to Smithfield, where she began preschool and formed friendships that would last throughout her life. Those friendships became a cherished part of who she was, and the bonds she created remained strong until the very end. Maddie had a gift for connecting with people and making them feel valued, accepted, and loved.

Maddie was never one to blend into the background. Whether it was her big, beautiful curls, her bold style, or one of her trademark shock-and-awe comments delivered with perfect timing, she had a gift for making a statement and leaving a lasting impression. She embraced life on her own terms and wasn't afraid to stand out. Her confidence, individuality, and fearless authenticity drew people to her and made her unforgettable. If you met Maddie, chances are you remembered her.

More than anything, Maddie will be remembered for her adventurous heart, her fierce independence, her loyalty to those she loved, and her unforgettable sense of humor. She lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Maddie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Robert and Bess Nessen.

She is survived by her devoted parents, Bobby and Andrea Nessen, and her beloved brother, Arik, who loved her more than anything. She is also survived by her grandmother, Cathie Sampson; her grandparents, Bill and Marianne Sampson; and her cherished furbabies, Porter and Grendel. Maddie leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever treasure her memory. A special place in her heart was held by her best friend and chosen sister, Izbel Oswald, and the entire Oswald family, whose love and friendship meant so much to her.

In one final act of generosity and love, Maddie chose to continue helping others through the gift of tissue and organ donation. Even after her passing, her adventurous spirit and caring heart live on through the lives she has touched and the countless individuals and families who will benefit from her extraordinary gift. Her legacy will be remembered not only by those who knew and loved her but also by those whose lives have been forever changed by her.

Though Maddie's time with us was far too short, the joy, laughter, and love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her adventurous spirit will never be forgotten, and her memory will remain a guiding light to those who loved her.

"Some people leave footprints wherever they go. Maddie left trails of laughter, love, adventure, and a dash of destruction that will never fade."