Magdalene Sylvie Welch

It has taken me a long time to write this as I was completely heartbroken to hear the news of your passing.
I had known you for nearly 10 years and I loved you like my own daughter.
We first met in 2012 at our street party and then you came to work for me in my catering business. We worked together for another few years and I loved every minute of it. You were so conscious and reliable and I relish we minute we spent together.
In the following years you would always wave to me as you passed by our house.
I was so pleased you found peace in your life in the middle east. We talked about my time in Oman and the experience I had.
Even though it's 6 months since your passing, I have tears in my eyes, and I write this.
Rest in peace you princess. I'm glad you find happiness in Islam and rest assured you have left many people behind who loved and cherished for the beautiful person you are. All my love, Keith

Hi mad! Hope you're doing good up there! We really miss you outhere most of all the furbabies you've left. Thank you for the good memories you've left us. Don't worry I'm taking good care of the babies youve left. Ik they miss you so much too. Nala is more naughty now and Luna is not shy anymore she wants me to pet her always when I get to work on your house. ❤❤

Sweet sweet Maddy, I feel so lucky to of known you for so long. From primary school, through secondary school, and going to kickboxing together - I have so many memories. We went off and lived our own lives but you always kept in touch and I will miss the random messages from you - how will I know who from primary school has gotten engaged and had a baby now???

I remember the first time I came to your house, no idea how old we were but we were baking cupcakes and I accidentally spilt food colouring on the wooden floor (sorry Vanessa & Tim). We both scrubbed until we decided the best thing to do would be to cover it up😂. We eventually sucked up the courage to tell your mom and you shared the blame with me showing even back then you were the kindest soul. From primary school I always wanted to be as creative as you, I loved your handwriting and I can never see a Disney font without thinking of you haha, that was your whole brand. Anything that had to be created, Maddy was bringing out the Disney font😂

You had the ability to make anyone feel special and beautiful, and maintain all the connections you built over the years and that was one of your superpowers.

Your passing has left a big dent in my heart and I can only thank you for being in my life the way you were.

To your family - I know how much Maddy adored and looked up to you all and seeing you all go through this pain and heartache absolutely breaks my heart for you. Sending love and strength always xxx

Maddy, I found some pictures that you would absolutely DIE at haha - some attached.

Rest in perfect peace princess.

Love Hannah <3

Maddy had it all. She radiated kindness, love and intelligence. She fell in love with life. She was pure and kind and funny and strikingly beautiful inside and out.

Maddy was brave. It wasn’t hard to see. Not only did she seize opportunities but impressively, she created them for herself. She had this amazing ability to make things happen and make all her dreams and ambitions come true.

Maddy was adventurous. When we first made friends in the early years of Camp Hill, we bonded through our shared dreams of exploring the world beyond Birmingham. I knew Maddy would say YES when I asked her if she wanted to go to Mexico with me and my family.

My favourite memories, of Maddy and of all time, were on that trip. Maddy was 16 and I was 15. We cried with laughter constantly. We played pranks on people we met, telling them Maddy was French and I was her interpreter (I can’t speak French). We were young and silly. I gave Maddy piggybacks everywhere. One time she was on my back and I tripped down a step, sending us tumbling down. Somehow we weren't hurt at all and just cried with laughter again. We loved the same music and would sing and dance around the hotel room together. I can't stop listening to all our old favourite songs. We went swimming in the cenotes and it was beautiful. I've always felt nostalgic and longed to be back there with her. I am so grateful to have shared the experience with Maddy and for the memories we created. They are so special to me. We were reminiscing about it earlier this year. Maddy said she'd love to go back for a day.

Maddy always supported me, from way back then right up until her death. She always celebrated my achievements and told me she was proud of me. And she gave the best advice. She reminded me often that she's always there for me. Maddy was wise. Any problem I had, Maddy knew what to say. I could talk to her about anything. She taught me to look at things differently. One thing I'll always remember is Maddy telling me not to take criticism from people I wouldn't take advice from. The words hit me like a tonne of bricks and helped me stop caring what others think. I always go back to them. Maddy also taught me practical techniques for overcoming my fears. She was amazing.

Maddy was extremely thoughtful and remembered all the little details. Last year she saw a restaurant opening soon called Kahnoon and sent me a picture of it because that’s my dog's name in Thailand. How could she remember that? She's never even met my dog!

It felt like we kind of grew up and matured together over the years. We both moved abroad. Maddy reverted to Islam and I was into Buddhism. We would share Sufi poetry with one another from afar. Maddy loved Rumi like me. We were both philosophers at heart, romanticising our lives. Maddy always found the magic in everything. I was so proud of her for following her own path. It inspired me to follow mine.

Sadly, I can't remember the last time I saw Maddy in person. It could be 8 or 9 years ago. Physically we were always far away from one another yet we always stayed in touch. Since covid we grew closer again. I took it for granted that we would meet again. I thought it would be soon because we both ended up working on the same project in Saudi. I was working on it from Bangkok but was hoping for a trip there soon so I could see Maddy.

My life wouldn't have taken the trajectory it did if it wasn't for Maddy. She taught me to dream bigger and bigger. She showed me that anything is possible. She never wasted a second. Maddy’s life was short, but I'm sure she did more living in her 27 years than most people do in 80. She always was and still is my inspiration.

I miss you so much Maddy. The loss I feel is insurmountable. I am so grateful for our special connection. Wherever I go, I see your beautiful face and unforgettable smile. I promise to dive into life like you did and won't let you down.

Words will never be enough. But I hope you knew the impact you had on my life Maddy. I know you are in Jannah. I love you forever and ever.

Our Dearest Maddy

Its hard to believe you're that not here with us anymore. From sharing our birthday cupcakes to our intense bartering skills at house festival, the memories I have with you are nothing short of being full of happiness , laughter and the occasional stress cry together in exams. One of my fondest memories together was in Iceland - we all went to the room after a long day in the coach and did face masks together and then stayed up until the early hours of the morning waiting until we saw the Aurora borealis and it was such a magical moment when we did. You were a light in everyone’s life and someone who saw any obstacles to her dreams as a challenge and pushed through them. I remember in the common room you saying shef Im gonna move when I'm older, Im gonna explore and live in other parts of the world - and you did it , Im so proud to see you achieve that dream. You will be missed for your brightness, positivity and infectious kindness. Until we meet again gorgeous girl

Shef xx

I don’t know how to describe it. Maddy was so different, she was like a mentor and a mother to me. I can’t stop thinking about her even in my best moments my heart is so heavy. She has a heart of gold and changed the life of a girl who didn’t know herself. I only looked up to her and wanted to be like her so bad, I learned more from the Palestinian genocide because of Maddy than I ever did in any History class at school. I aspire to be like Maddy in all shapes and forms, you touched the heart and the soul of a little girl who lacked so much confidence in herself. For that Magdalene I ever grateful, you live on in my memory. Everything I do is for you.

May Allah grant you the highest rank in Jannah, my sweet angel. Ameen.

Only knew Mady from our online friendship. She was someone special and from reading the tributes I can see everyone feels the same.

May she rest in peace

Heartfelt condolences from Abid and Yassar (Abid’s son in law). Abid still cannot come to terms with Maddy’s death. She worked for him in the past and he always spoke highly of her. I remember meeting Maddy at the Spice Merchant restaurant a couple of time when I was there and remember how much of a nice person she was just like her family. May Allah (swt) grant her a place in jannah and give patience to her family. Ameen

Yassar and Abid

Dear beautiful Maddy,

I remember our first meeting vividly. We were walking on campus to a class at university when you introduced yourself with a big, warm smile. I knew right then that we would become friends.

From that moment, we became close very quickly – one of those friendships that develop so effortlessly and fast that you can hardly recall how it evolved.

I'll always cherish the memories we made together, from our gym sessions where I was a newbie and you tried to encourage me, often leaving me in cramps, to the endless laughter during our group project, and our unforgettable trip to Marrakesh. Everything we did together was filled with laughter, and your warm, kind, and vibrant energy made those moments truly enjoyable. You often mentioned not feeling British, but you embraced your background with such positivity, even doing your university project about Birmingham and inviting me and your other close university friends there for a weekend. That was so you – always making the most of everything and seeing the positive in every situation. You had big dreams to escape the UK and find the place that truly made you feel, "Yes, this is where I belong," and you did exactly that.

Even though we lost touch in the last few years because of our different paths, I remember the last time we spoke two years ago. We said we would meet again soon, and I can’t believe that won’t happen now.

I'm heartbroken that you are no longer with us. You achieved so much at such a young age and had so much love, ambition, and positivity. I wish I could have seen the rest of your story unfold.

My deepest condolences go to your family, whom you always spoke of so highly. I can't imagine the pain they are going through.

I’m sure that wherever you are now, you’re in a better place, making the most of it like you always did, sharing your warmth, kindness, positive energy, infectious laughter, and inspiring those around you.

Sweet beloved Maddy,

Only Allah can know what’s in our heart and how much you’ve shaped the course our lives.

I was so looking forward to catching up with you, the day before the accident, when you said we could perhaps meet up next week for a coffee… Ya Rabb, I pray we can share coffees, delights & reminiscent moments together in jannah Inshallah. 💔

Love for you and the Love you shared with us flows through us eternally.

Thank you for lighting up our lives with a smile, laughter and pure joy that still resounds so beautifully and still alive within our souls,

Thank you for reminding us to live life as beautifully, as fully and whole heartedly as possible & to trust in Allah and His habib & the things which he loved (sws).

Thank you for being the first person ever to tell me that I’m beautiful. For lifting us up and encouraging us to rise and flourish beyond what we think is possible.

May Allah bless you, elevate your Light and grant you eternal tranquility.

We are praying that your beautiful light and supportive energy continue manifesting and flourishing in our lives, especially for your beautiful family, although no manifestation can come close to your beauty. May all the beautiful things remind us to keep praying for your soul.

We’re missing you dearly, though where you are is the real destination for us all. May we live in the lights of your shining teachings and examples for us.

Missing you dearly,
From somewhere on earth to somewhere in the heavens,
Zoya

Wonderful, kind Maddy. I’m sorry this has taken me so long to write, I’ve been struggling to comprehend that this world no longer has you in it. That I will no longer hear your laughter, your advice or encouragement. The world is a darker place for it. I have never known someone to throw themselves more into life than you. I seem to recall you telling me at 14 that you were going to live all over the world, and it didn’t surprise me one bit when you first moved away - you have no idea how much your updates meant to me and when I could see you when we were both home. I hope you know how loved you are, how adored! You fiercely intelligent, beautiful , powerful woman. The world has been robbed of your greatness, and I am lucky to have been able to basked in it while I could.

My heart is sinking, as are many others.

Sending so much love to you, kisses and cuddles - and to your beautiful family.

Love you always.
Izzie xxx

Lovely Maddy,
I am truly heartbroken that you’ve been taken from the world, from your beautiful family.
I knew you through Alice, through the bond you shared as sisters and as real friends, too. She would light up when she updated me on your life. It was a life that did not happen to you, it was so clear you lived with intention, with determination and dedication, it was a life you worked hard to create for yourself; that is something I truly admire about you. When I did spend time with you, your knack for really leaning in, for listening and engaging with whoever it was you spoke with was just so wonderful. Your beauty, creativity and calm maturity always shone to me. Not to mention how unbearably chic you always were! You’re a special woman, and I can feel that through how you have made people feel, both those lucky enough to love you and know you well, and even those that knew you only briefly, too.
You’re gone much, much to soon and I know your family are totally heartbroken, I am heartbroken for them. Sending so much love and strength to Vanessa, Tim, Loz, Billy & Al as they feel this loss so deeply.
Maddy, you were special and so, so loved.
Xxx

I’ve been having some difficulty with comprehending a world that doesn’t have Maddy in it. My heart truly broke hearing the news of Maddy’s passing. It feels so cruel that someone so full of life and adventure was taken so soon.
I truly feel so honoured to have known Maddy in such formative years of our lives.
I remember meeting Maddy in year 7 and remembering she was the most beautiful, and kindhearted person in the world.
When year 9 came and we were put in the same form and became closer, I felt so lucky that she chose me as a close friend. I remember wanting to do everything with Maddy and wanting to tell her everything. She always made me howl with laughter, because of her frankness and mischievous side. She was also so full of brilliant ideas and I was always in awe of her determination and courage. I felt so myself and accepted by Maddy because she was so so open minded and supportive of everything and everyone. She would always send me kind words of encouragement from wherever she was in the world up until she passed and knowing now that I won’t get to have that is hard.
However, I am so proud of the woman she became. Even though in the last few years we weren’t in as much contact as we used to be, I was so excited to see what she was doing, and remembering she said she’d do that when we were teenagers! I was always cheering for her from afar and hoping we could come together again and catch up on everything we had learnt. I was more excited to learn from her, if I am honest.
She truly lived her life to the fullest and I hope to honour her going forward with that same mentality.
To the Welch Family and Saud, I am so so sorry for your loss, I can’t even fathom the pain you all must feel from losing such a bright star from your lives. I hope you all are so proud of her and the impact she had on so many people’s lives.
Thank you also for being such a warm and welcoming family, and for allowing for such pivotal moments to happen in our childhoods.
I know Maddy loved you so much and we all do too. Sending you all so much love 🤍

Maddy, it has been the biggest honour of my life knowing you, thank you for everything 🤍

My darling Maddy,

I’m completely heartbroken. You were the most incredible, beautiful, kindest human and I will be eternally grateful to have known you in this lifetime.

You were always too precious for this earth, but your legacy will forever live on and your captivating spirit will never be forgotten.

May your beautiful soul rest peacefully in Jannah.

Love you always babygirl,
Marjan 🤍

Maddy was an extraordinary individual whose presence had a profound impact on everyone she encountered. Her vibrant personality and pure soul drew people in, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Our final conversation, just a day before her tragic passing, remains etched in my memory. She spoke with enthusiasm about embracing Saudi Arabia as her home and was eagerly anticipating our upcoming visit to London to meet our client. Her excitement about creating something unique was palpable and inspiring.

I vividly recall our last client meeting, where Maddy's engaging nature captivated everyone present. What was planned as a brief discussion extended into a two-hour conversation, a testament to her ability to connect and inspire.

Our clients were particularly enamoured with Maddy. Her charm and professionalism left a lasting impression, fostering strong relationships that extended beyond mere business interactions.

Maddy, our dear young princess, your memory will forever remain in our thoughts. Your brief time with us has left an enduring legacy, and your spirit will continue to inspire those who had the fortune of knowing you.

Maddy, it’s been so comforting yet emotional reading all the lovely things your friends have to say about you. It confirms how I see you - head strong, determined, fearless, the biggest cheerleader to your nearest & dearest, a fellow cat lover, bloomin’ beautiful and filled with love for your family. I just wish I told you that! Life gets in the way but I was so proud of you and loved watching your adventure.

The amount I’ve gone through your Instagram and our family group chat and photos in the past couple of weeks probably isn’t normal but the one post that stuck out to me that I will continue to remember- ‘if you love them let them know’. I want to learn from the life you led and how you saw the beauty in everything and everyone. Life is fragile but wow you made such a long lasting impact on so many people.

Sending my love to you Tim, Ness, Billy, Alice, Loz and Saud and always thinking of you x

My lasting memory of Maddy will be her extraordinary maturity and composure when she was invited to present to the Retail Leaders Summit in Riyadh a couple of months ago.
It was while we worked on the presentation together and rehearsed it, that I was struck by an extraordinary strength in her voice when she presented. This surprised both me and one of the other panelists who had offered to watch us in the dry run an hour or so before the panel session.
When her part of the panel discussion started, Maddy was compelling, engaging and mature well beyond her years; she sparkled on stage. It struck me (and I shared it with her) that she was perhaps the youngest non Saudi person to present at such a high profile event.
Maddy, we were lucky to have had you with us, even if for a short time since the start of this year. Clients warmed to you almost immediately and it was always great having you alongside us on the team. Fond memories always

Beautiful Maddy. We became connected via social media because of Camp Hill and although we didn’t formerly meet after school you were always so kind in my DMs. I absolutely loved seeing you achieve incredible things and loved living vicariously through you via your social media updates. More recently I especially loved watching your journey with Islam and how much passion you had for it all, Alhamdulillah.

From what I could see you lived life to the absolute fullest and achieved so much in such a short time. I was always in awe of all the amazing things you were doing and loved seeing all your adventures, especially the fulfilling life you were living in Saudi. I also loved seeing the love you had for your beautiful family.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un. I pray Allah shows you mercy and makes your journey to the next life easy, I pray He grants you the highest ranks of Jannah and gives your family and friends the patience and strength they need to navigate this tragic loss. Ameen. You will forever be in my duas Maddy, my sister in Islam.

Dear sweet, kind, funny, beautiful Maddy,

I haven’t been able to find the words to describe how wonderful and amazing of a human you are and frankly no words can describe your perfect soul. It is very rare to meet people as pure as you and I will forever be grateful that we crossed paths in my last year of Uni. I will never forget how you told me that your 23 and me test came back saying you’re 1% Turkmen and how you could now say you knew a Turkmen to share that with - we bonded over that in an instant.

Thank you for everything you did, thank you for being the star of my third year project and even though you were slammed with other work still agreeing to do the filming for it. This is just another example of how selfless and loving you were.

Another favourite of my memories is sharing my favourite spots in dubai with you, and how I introduced you to Karak tea and Omani chips paratha and you got obsessed and kept going back. We planned on meeting up last week but I guess that will just have to wait, until we meet again beautiful ♥️

I love and cherish the memories we shared and I will continue doing so for as long as I can.

You lived life to the fullest and I am so proud of everything you achieved and the life you made for yourself. Thank you for being you. You are so loved princess.

الله يرحمها

Dear Maddy,

Some memories I’ve been thinking of that have made me smile.

• In mainschool, when you asked Husna M & I to bring in scarves so you could use them to perform your latest obsession- the Arabic Lahma song

• The way you fell in love with the word ‘mystical’ & convinced the whole class to fall in love with it too. On this note…

• The way you alchemised the mundane into the beautiful

• The wisdom in your words as you told us your reversion story. Your words that evening were felt by us all, so very viscerally

Jazakillahkheir for the lessons you taught us & the reflections you imparted upon us the last time we met with you in this Dunya. I am so very glad to have crossed your path to be present there the last time we met, by chance that evening.

May your Ruh be enveloped in everlasting peace & your heart be forever nourished by the Imaan you so beautifully found during your life, & the love of those whose lives you had touched.

Fi Amanillah dear Maddy,
I look forward to meeting with you again Fil Jannah 🤍

Dear Maddy,

I miss our chats. The conversations we had catching up on each others lives brought me so much joy. I loved hearing about how happy you were and how well you were doing. You were always so emotionally intelligent and probably didn't even realise the ways you helped me through your wise words. I loved sharing my joys with you and knew you'd be a personal cheerleader for me every time. I don't think the feeling that you're not here has truly sunk in. You were truly one of the most extraordinary people I knew. Some of my favourite memories were the countless school pranks you did - I think I'd be belly laughing every single day at the ridiculous stuff you were behind. I'll always remember those last silly convos we had.
I'm so happy to have known you and called you my friend.

Rest easy Maddy 🤍

Maddy,
The purest, most selfless, positive person I’ve ever met ! We first met 12 years ago at a 5sos meet up in London and we’ve stayed in touch ever since! You were always there when I needed advice and a friend to talk to! The last time I met up with you was in Dubai and you invited me and my mum out for dinner! We had the most amazing night and I will always be grateful to have shared memories with you! What a credit to your family and loved ones you were! All my love goes out to them all.

A beautiful soul that will never be forgotten. You will be missed dearly, mads. 🪽💖

Maddy
We only met in January when you came to work with us at Keane. In a short time you impressed so many people with your thinking, your creativity and most importantly your passion for life.
I was able to spend a fair bit of one to one time with you on my visits to Riyadh and was so impressed with the boldness you went about forging the life you wanted to live and the happiness it brought you.
The photo was taken on your first day in the office at Keane. I like to think it shows how happy you were with the life decisions you had taken.
Our thoughts are with Saud, your parents and your family.

I knew Magdalene earlier this year, as her office was next to mine. She was truly a beautiful person, both inside and out.
She generously shared her passion for horse riding with me, inviting me to join her and experience the joy she felt when riding. It’s still shocking to me that she is gone she had so many plans, dreams and so much to give.

I’ll never forget her caring and loving nature and the lessons I learned from her. Her kindness, enthusiasm, and genuine spirit touched me deeply.
As we all tread this path of life, I find solace in knowing that she was happy with her life, and many people are praying for her. May she rest in eternal peace, and I hope we meet you again in Janah.

Maddy,
I have so much admiration for you, you pursued and accomplished your dreams by doing so much good around you.
You had a huge heart and incredible energy. I have many happy memories of our time at TGP in the London office with all our beautiful colleagues. I will cherish those 6 months I got to spend in your presence.
My deepest condolences to all your family and friends.
Shine bright Maddy 💫

Beautiful Maddy,

I am grateful to have crossed paths with you in this life. You are one of those special humans that leaves a mark so big that no matter the time or distance, you are always here. We met at Goldsmiths, and we got very close in the final year. You were the only one who could see how insecure I really was, and the first person to make me feel good about myself. This is something only people with a beautiful soul can do. We kept in touch by following each other’s paths after uni, always sending support to each other when we had the chance. I am very proud of the woman you have become. A woman I always looked up to and admired. So fearless, so smart, so ambitious, so kind, and so beautiful. I am also very glad that you visited Albania and saw my culture.

To hear the shocking news has been very difficult to accept. It is heartbreaking the world won’t get the chance to see you live the long and successful life that you deserved. I find peace in knowing that in the time you were granted, you achieved so much and touched so many people. You are the most full of life human I have ever met. You loved life so much that you were too big for this life. I will always find you inside our song “Ya Rayah”, which now you will be always dancing to with the angels and dervishes among which you so rightly belong.

Your memory will always guide me to live fully, to love deeply, and go after everything that makes me happy. I promise to keep your memory alive in my heart forever. It has been an honour knowing you Maddy.

To Maddy’s family, words are not enough to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. From what Maddy shared of you, it is clear your bond is deeply rooted in love. May Maddy’s light guide you and give you strength.

Maddy,
I’ve seen you grow up from the age of 8, I’ve seen you grow into the beautiful determined passionate and loving woman you became. What il never forget is the fierce love you had for Alice, whenever she would be going through something, we would be messaging each other about how to support her. You would tell me the cute little things you were doing to make her feel supported like getting 2 pizzas delivered to her door just to make sure she got the flavour she wanted♥️ the bond you two have has always been and always will be incredible.
You always carried yourself with such poise, and made your own choices and lived your own life, you were so passionate about doing good in this world- and I admire you so much. Rest in peace maddy, we will all miss you X

I try to remember your laughter. This came so easily to you with your constant awe and excitement for life and the world. Being able to witness your laughter countless times, makes my heart ache and warm at the same time.

I miss you Maddy, you’ve made me think of all the could’ve, would’ve, should’ve’s in my life, including the countless times we’ve talked about me visiting you on my way home to Malaysia. May you rest in peace and comfort in knowing that you are so loved and will forever be missed.

I met Maddy about 2 years ago, we worked at the same firm back the. She is an amazing kind person with great spirit. Was greatly sad when i heard the news.

God bless her soul.

Maddy,
I’ve seen your life through Alice’s eyes, always hearing updates about the amazing stuff you were doing and how much Alice loved you and always wanted to keep you safe.
I’ve seen you grow up from a sweet, kind girl to a beautiful, caring young woman who has so much love to give. I will always remember our occasional DMs hyping each other up and discussing present ideas for your sister and how we could support her through tough times. I promise to keep doing that.
I know your love and strength will help your beautiful family power through.
Thank you for teaching me to hold on to our loved ones tight. You will be so missed x

To my dear Maddy,

Hearing the heartbreaking news about you from faraway Korea, where I am now, is still hard to believe. When we last spoke earlier this year, I never imagined it would be the last time I'd hear your voice. It's surreal to think that our trip together five years ago would be our final adventure. When I first came to England as a foreign student, your help made the strange land feel like home, and I could quickly adapt without feeling lonely. I will never forget the laughter, happiness, and kindness you brought into my life. Without you, I wouldn't have been able to complete my studies so smoothly or have such a joyful time as an international student.

I will always cherish the warm welcome from your family when I visited your home in Birmingham. I still remember your mother jokingly telling my mom that she was Jieun's English mom. Why did I take it for granted? Nothing in this world is guaranteed, but I believed too strongly that I would see you again. I regret not staying in touch more often, and not visiting you when I had the chance.
Nevertheless, I am grateful for the three years we had together, during which you embraced me so warmly despite our different backgrounds. I will never forget your warmth and love. Although I couldn't be there in Saudi to say my last goodbye, you will always be in my heart, and I will always pray for you. I will also keep your family in my prayers. No words can console the immense grief they must be feeling, but I am grateful to have had you as my friend.

Maddy, I love you so much. May you be happier in heaven, doing all the things you want to do. When my time comes, please greet me with that loving smile once again. Thank you and I love you, my beautiful friend Maddy from England.

My favourite memories of you are in Biology classes. Dr Rajp talking about plants whilst we're sitting on the front row going heart-eyed over the future lives we were imagining for ourselves. Even in those days it was so clear that you were living life, life was never just happening to you. I always loved how you made it all look so effortless, of course you could achieve what you wanted if you were wholehearted about it. Safe to say I'd leave classes practically floating on the words you shared.

I'm grateful for the small moments I got with you. Thank you for being such a generous person and so open to the people you encountered. I hope we can continue even a fraction of the life-loving energy you embodied.

So much love, Maddy, rest in peace.

When we met for the first time at school I was immediately enamoured by you. I was drawn to your vivacious spirit, your abundant kindness, and thought you were the most beautiful person in the world (I definitely told you that the first time I spoke to you, couldn’t help it!)
I’m so grateful that over the years our friendship blossomed the way that it did, into something so special to me that I will treasure forever. I’m so lucky to call you my best friend.

I was inspired by you every day; your determination, the way you fearlessly chased your dreams, your incredible sense of humour (actually the funniest person I’ve ever met), your boundless compassion, and the way you loved people & let them know. You are such a special person.

Thank you for having me in your life, for keeping my secrets, for believing in me, and for changing the trajectory of my life on more than one occasion - I owe so much to you.

We used to laugh so much about the unofficial Camp Hill songs we’d sing in assembly, especially “For Good” from Wicked. I was thinking about you and listened to it earlier:

“It well may be
That we will never meet again
In this lifetime
So let me say before we part
So much of me
Is made of what I learned from you
You'll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend”

It’s the biggest privilege of my life to have been a part of yours. Love you forever Maddy, I miss you so much.

I was also very shocked when I heard the news this week that you had passed away.

We met more than ten years ago in the south of France at a campsite. You immediately stood out, as the only Brit among a whole group of Dutch people. From the first moment we laughed out loud and you had a good connection with me and my girlfriend.

You were very special because of your genuine interest in people, your friendliness, your calmness, your sense of humor and your will to master new languages ​​and cultures. We experienced a lot of hilarious moments. I remember one night you kept singing this song "Johnny, la genta esta muy loca", which led to both irritation and a lot of laughter.

In the years that followed we kept in touch with WhatsApp and we saw each other for a number of years at the same campsite, where we simply continued as if we last saw eachother a week ago.

Ultimately, you have been to the Netherlands a number of times and we had the pleasure of letting you discover it, including a long bike ride after a night out.

In the last few years we had less frequent contact, but still reached out to eachother about special life events. For example, I spoke to you a few weeks ago about the birth of our daughter, you were genuinely so happy for us!

I'm very sad that I can never introduce my daughter to her English "aunt". That the world already has to say goodbye to you, it feels so unfair.

Fortunately, you leave me and a lot of others with loads of wonderful memories, a wonderful and inspiring example in countless areas, but especially your kindness.

I would also like to wish the entire family a lot of strength with this enormous loss. My sincere condolences.
We miss you already Maddy, be well.

Ps. Your drawing still hangs in my study. As you said when you gave it to me, maybe one day, when I'm a great artist, it will be worth a lot. Now it is invaluable.

Lucas

I met Maddy while working at TGP, and every encounter with her was always so inspiring and bubbly🤍 I always though “how could someone be so talented, beautiful, and passionate at such a young age”. She’s definitely given me and many others a beautiful perspective on life as a young adult and I will take that with me forever. She lived life to the fullest, as everyone should. 🤍 P.S. this cheeky selfie is from our office christmas party where I talked to Maddy for the first time and by the end of the night Maddy, Jess and I chatted all night and laughed about the silliest things, a beautiful memory of my very first office party 🤍

Maddy,
I met you for a few days years ago at Camp Hill, and we reconnected a few years back. Like most others, my regret is that we did not have more time for our friendship. There are some people in this world who are pure light. You were one of them. There is a feeling and impact in all of our hearts through just knowing you even if we didn't see you. Umm Huraira you were. The sweet, vibrant, pure hearted woman. We connected on Islam and, although I was born Muslim, I felt so much more stronger in my faith because of you. Allah takes the most special much sooner than we would wish. May Jannah be your resting place & may I meet you there where we can continue to build our friendship. All my prayers and thoughts are with your family and husband, whom you loved so so much. I will remember you in life always. Thank you and alhamdulilah that I got whatever time I could in this world with you. I love you. Till we meet again, my sister🤍

Beautiful Maddy. Though our paths never physically crossed you have been in my life for over 12 years, and what a pleasure it has been to witness your thirst for life, for growth, for change and for good. Watching you set out and achieve your dreams has been inspiring. Nothing was unreachable when you set your mind to it. An ever present that I will greatly miss. To Maddy’s family - it was so clear just how much she absolutely adored you all. It beamed out of her.

May you be granted Jannah, Mads💖

Maddy, we have drifted so far in life, but our paths miraculously paralelled on the journey towards Islam and spirituality. I have much to learn but I'm glad to be in the position to understand where you are at. I believe you have done so much good deeds here that God wishes to keep you close to him in Jannah, to bring laughters to all the beautiful souls like yourself. You will enjoy all the peace and tranquility you deserve now.

If there is anything I wish we had reconnected when I had the chance, but we will meet again one day.

You were once but always will be my aries sister, my helpy teammate, my gym motivation, my flatmate, my studio partner, steammed broccoli baked beans and much much more...

Your presence is stronger than ever and you continue to be my inspiration in life and beyond. (I should honour our yacht party in 2027 !)

Allahyarhamah.

I met Maddy whilst studying with her at university, and to say she was one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met would be an understatement. I remember feeling so in awe of her calm, quiet confidence, how she was always so sure of her path, and her determination to succeed, whilst always being so kind and gentle. We’d sit for hours and talk about what we wanted to do in life, where we wanted to go, and who we wanted to be. Although we were in contact less over the last few years, it was beautiful to see that Maddy was clearly living the life she’d always dreamt of, the kind of life she’d told me she wished for all those years ago. I never had any doubt she’d do it. I never felt at home in London, but Maddy made me feel calm and a lot less lonely. What I liked most about her was how she spoke about her family. Her love for them radiated from her. Maddy became a safe space for me and friend at a time when I didn’t feel as though I had many. And I will always be grateful to her for that. I can’t imagine how proud of her you must be, and I am so, so incredibly sorry for your loss. X

Maddy and I met two years ago at a dinner with mutual friends. She started to tell me about her journey to Islam which deeply inspired me. From the moment we met we instantly had a strong connection, and her aura was just so pure. She told me how much she wanted to visit Saudi, and Subhanallah as if God answered her prayers, she ended up moving here. Although we lived in different cities, seeing Maddy when I came to visit Riyadh was a breath of fresh air. She was the kindest soul, and I’m so blessed to have crossed paths with her. Thank you for everything that you were Maddy. Always in my prayers sweet angel 🤍

Maddy, I can remember the first time I heard about you: Alice smiling as she described this strong-willed, young and beautiful person that she was so excited to fly out and see in Dubai. Our paths crossed only a handful of times but I have gained a strong sense of who you are; your single-mindedness; your humour; your faith; your love for your family; and your appreciation for the finer things in life.

The wholeheartedness with which you pursued what you wanted from this world is an example for us all to follow, and knowing that you had found so much happiness and fulfilment in your life with Saud in Riyadh is a validation of that spirit. It’s a tragedy that such joy has been cut short, and I’m so sad that I won’t get to see you continue to flourish over the years to come. But you have left an indelible impact on so many people in the time that you have been here, and your legacy and your memory will always be a blessing for us all.

Maddy, it's been 17 or more years since we actually last met, but I have enjoyed following your progress and adventures on instagram over the last few years. You really look like you were achieving so much, and your passions really managed to shine through. It really has felt like following a travel or lifestyle influencer at times!

Rest in Peace, and my sincerest condolences to your family and friends.

Maddy. Thank you for considering me a sister and for being so kind to me. We all have a time written for us to return back to our Lord…and you happened to complete your time on Earth to progress to the next realm. Death is not the end. May Allah swt show you mercy and grant you Jannah. Thank you for the duas you made for me. I’ll continue to do the same 🩷 inshAllah we get to have that coffee date someday.

‬‎ ‎‫إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ‬‎
We never met but have talked on social media.You brought‬‎ so much love and kindness to my family. You were truly a dedicated friend and sister to my dear nephew.You came into his life at the perfect time..almost as if Allah had guided you...Alhumdullillah ..you trusted the family in the biggest decision of your life.Alhumdullilah.........You passed from this world living your dream .May you be in peace and may your family have sabr to know you are in the best place...

Maddy, for the five years i have known you never made it feel as if we were friends, you made me feel like i had an older sister. You were there for me in the most difficult period of my life, your kindness, empathy, and presence were a beacon of light, guiding me through the tough times. Your memory will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am forever grateful for the moments we shared.

May Allah grant you the highest ranks in Jannah, and give your family the patience and strength to go through this difficult time.

You will be truly missed.

Maddy and I never met, however I don’t think I can ever overstate the impact she made in my life. We “met” online when we were literally 10/11 years old on a website called Polyvore and across oceans and continents, we became close friends. Without her, I wouldn’t’ve found certain social media platforms and communities when I did and the entire trajectory of my life and career would be different. Can you imagine - a complete stranger on the other side of the world impacting your life like that? But that’s just how Maddy was; she was able to connect with people and encourage them and show them love. She lived out her faith through her compassion and I am honoured to have ever known her. We never got to meet up should she ever come to Joburg or Cape Town and we missed each other when I was in London, but it always felt good to engage every now and then on Instagram and know she was out there somewhere. Her passing was so tragic and I pray her soul finds eternal peace - but let it never be unsaid that countless lives were changed for the better simply because she was. Sleep sweet, Maddy 🤍

Maddie. We have never met. We were simply online friends from before you put on the hijab. It was beautiful to see your journey from whoever you were to whoever you ended up becoming. Thank you for sharing your story about how & where Allah found you, which made me realise He was calling me too. The more we spoke, the more I gravitated towards Islam. It brought me to much joy to see you enjoy your life riding horses & putting arrows in fake boars. It’s always the thing that you hold on to too dearly that takes you away from earth & back to Allah. I hope your family & especially Saud are proud of who you became & are proud to live the rest of their lives in your honour. You had completed your journey on earth & that’s why Allah wanted to take you back to Him. Innalillahi Wa Inna Ilaji Rajeon.

Much love to you & your family, your friend in Islam.