By David Robert | Published: June 26, 2026 | Source: Arsenal Volleyball Club Facebook post
GOODRICH, Mich. — Madelyn “Maddi” Thams, 10-year-old, member of the Arsenal Volleyball Club’s 12 Regional team, died after sustaining critical injuries in a tragic accident on June 21, according to her family and community supporters.
Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from teammates, coaches, friends, and neighbors across Mid-Michigan, many of whom have shared tributes celebrating the remarkable impact she made despite her young age.
According to a family fundraiser organized by Lauren Schultz, Maddi remained hospitalized for several days following the accident while doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to save her life. Despite those extraordinary medical efforts, she passed away surrounded by the love and prayers of those closest to her.
A Young Life That Touched an Entire Community
Although only 10 years old, Maddi leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond athletics.
Family members describe her as a bright, caring child whose warmth and infectious smile brought comfort and happiness wherever she went. Whether spending time with family, baking, watching sunsets, playing with dogs, or competing alongside her teammates, Maddi approached life with enthusiasm, generosity, and a genuine love for others.
Those qualities also defined her experience on the volleyball court.
As a member of Arsenal Volleyball Club, Maddi was known not only for her commitment to the game but also for encouraging teammates and creating friendships that reached beyond competition. Coaches and fellow players remember her as someone whose positive attitude embodied the values of teamwork, kindness, and sportsmanship.
In announcing her passing, Arsenal Volleyball Club shared an emotional message with its extended volleyball family.
“Dear Arsenal Family, it is with deep sadness that I share that one of our 12 Regional Players, Madelyn Thams, passed away unexpectedly. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.”
The statement reflects the profound sense of loss felt throughout the club, where Maddi was regarded as a valued teammate and beloved friend.
A Legacy of Compassion That Lives On
Even in the midst of unimaginable tragedy, Maddi’s family says her generous spirit continues to inspire hope.
According to the family’s official GoFundMe campaign, Maddi became an organ donor, giving the gift of life to others in need. Loved ones describe that final act of generosity as a fitting reflection of the caring heart that defined her life.
“Helping others came naturally to Maddi,” the fundraiser states, noting that her legacy will continue through the lives she has touched and the recipients who will benefit from her selfless decision.
She is survived by her loving parents, her 12-year-old brother, grandparents, extended family members, teammates, classmates, teachers, and countless friends who are now left to cherish the memories they shared with her.
Community Rallies Around the Thams Family
Following Maddi’s passing, members of the Goodrich and Davison communities have united to support her family during one of the most difficult moments of their lives.
A GoFundMe campaign established by family friend Lauren Schultz seeks to help offset significant medical expenses incurred during Maddi’s hospitalization, along with funeral and celebration-of-life costs. Organizers say the response from friends, neighbors, and even strangers has been an overwhelming reminder of the compassion that exists within the community.
Supporters who are unable to contribute financially have been encouraged to continue honoring Maddi’s memory through prayers, messages of encouragement, and by sharing the fundraiser with others.
Funeral and Celebration of Life
According to the family’s official announcement, services honoring Maddi’s life will take place as follows:
Visitation
- Allen Funeral Home
- Davison, Michigan
- Friday, June 26, 2026
- 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Celebration of Life
- St. Mark Lutheran Church
- Flint, Michigan
- Saturday, June 27, 2026
- 11:00 a.m.
Family members have invited attendees to celebrate Maddi’s vibrant personality by wearing leopard print, yellow, or other bright colors rather than traditional dark attire.
Remembering Madelyn Thams
While her life was tragically brief, those who knew Maddi say the love she shared, the friendships she built, and the joy she brought into everyday moments will endure.
Her family hopes she will be remembered not for the tragedy that claimed her life, but for the extraordinary compassion she showed to others, the happiness she spread so effortlessly, and the lasting difference she continues to make through organ donation.
As family, friends, teammates, and the wider Goodrich community gather to celebrate her life, Maddi’s memory lives on in every act of kindness inspired by her example—a legacy of love that will continue to shine long after her passing.
Editorial Standards
This obituary has been prepared using information released by Arsenal Volleyball Club and details provided by the Thams family through their publicly shared GoFundMe fundraiser. At the time of publication, no additional official statement regarding the circumstances of the accident had been released. This article will be updated should the family or relevant authorities provide further verified information.