Inspirational 8-Year-Old Dies But Her Legacy Of Love Lives On

MERIDEN/BRISTOL, CT — An inspirational 8-year-old, Madison “Birdie” Rose Barbieri has died after a lengthy battle with Marfan syndrome, which is described as a rare genetic condition.

“At 5:33pm on 4/26/25 Our Beautiful Birdie B grew her own set of wings. I never EVER thought it would end this way. You have touched so many lives most of all mine. The world just got so dark and cold,” the family announced on the ‘Team Madison’ Facebook page, which has nearly 3,000 followers.

The Facebook page chronicles her medical journey, which includes numerous hospital and doctor visits, but also just as many photos of her smiling surrounded by her adoring family and friends. (You can visit the ‘Team Madison’ Facebook page here).

News of Madison’s death was met with nearly 800 comments, including former NBC Connecticut anchor Heidi Voight, who wrote, “Just reading these comments it is clear what an impact this beautiful angel made in her too short time here on earth. So deeply, deeply sorry for your profound loss.”

Madison underwent surgery on April 25, and she died the next day, her family wrote on social media.

In her obituary at the Wallingford Funeral Home, it states “from the moment she arrived, she brought boundless love, laughter, and light into the lives of all who knew her.” She is survived by her parents James Barbieri Jr. and Sharon Barbieri and siblings, Nicholas and Jake.

“Her sassy, fearless attitude and radiant smile lit up every room she wheeled into, leaving joy, laughter, and pure love wherever she went. Her spirit was larger than life, a beautiful force that touched everyone lucky enough to know her,” according to the obituary.

She was a huge Taylor Swift fan, and her favorite character was Stitch.

“Birdie is a gift, a spark, a fighter, and a light that will never dim,” according to her obituary. “Madison “Birdie” Rose Barbieri will forever be remembered…as a fierce and radiant soul who showed us all how to live with love, sass, and sparkle. A beautiful reminder of how much magic one little girl could bring into the world, she will be deeply missed and forever celebrated. Fly high, our sweet Birdie. You will always be our brightest sparkle in the sky!”

Iris White, who is Bristol’s Acting Superintendent of Schools, announced the sad news in a letter to the school community. Madison attended second grade at Stafford Elementary School.

“Birdie, as she was affectionately known, was a cherished member of our school community who brought joy to all who knew her,” White wrote. “I had the pleasure of meeting Birdie a few months ago; her humor, strength, and character filled the room. Our entire community feels this loss deeply, as she touched the lives of many people across the district.”

“Though her time with us was far too short, she left a lasting impact that will continue to inspire us all. Let us move forward with the same love, spirit, and courage that Madison showed us,” White added.

The Meriden Fire Union wrote on social media, “Our deepest condolences go out to the Barbieri family. Madison was and will continue to be an inspiration to us all.”

Calling hours are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 2pm. Mourners are encouraged to wear pink and purple, which were Madison’s favorite colors.