Madeline Parker Higgins, 6, passed away Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, after a 22-month-long battle with brain cancer. Memorial service: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at Greenwood Funeral Home, 3100 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, followed by a "kid-friendly" celebration of life, filled with fun activities and fond remembrance, 3 to 7 p.m. at Park Row Christian Academy, 915 W. Park Row Drive, Arlington. She was born Jan. 15, 2007, to Patrick and Melanie Higgins. She attended Park Row Christian Academy and was able to begin her first-grade year just before her condition forced her into home hospice care in August. "Maddie" was an intelligent and precocious child, vibrant and full of inexhaustible energy, a sharp wit, a bright smile and eyes that gave away a wisdom that exceeded her years. She truly believed she was a real-life princess, and to so many she was. But more than that, she was an angel on earth, patiently waiting to earn her wings. She left a mark on any who were fortunate enough to meet her. Maddie loved to spend her time drawing and painting, singing, reading, doing science experiments, enjoying friends and family, and playing the most detailed and elaborate games of pretend any child could imagine. During her battle, Maddie inspired her community to rally around her and her family in unprecedented ways, to provide immeasurable love and support, and the genesis of a larger cause. She unknowingly became a voice for Childhood Cancer Awareness, for which she would have been immensely proud. Her journey has touched the lives of literal thousands who followed her "Fight for Maddie" Facebook page and helped bring attention to the battles too many children continue to fight. In doing so, she has made more of an impact in her six short years than most people can claim in a lifetime. Survivors: Madeline is survived by her parents; her brother, Benjamin; eight grandparents; two great-grandmothers; many aunts and uncles; several cousins; many friends; and an entire community that will greatly miss such a bright light.

Published in Star-Telegram on October 3, 2013