Maddie James Dies

Maddie James, 5, of Dana Point, the girl who inspired the establishment of a foundation to build a learning center for the Ocean Institute, died at 9 p.m., March 13, at her home. Her parents, Collie and Kajsa James, were by her side.  

You can read the statement that Collie issued here: caringbridge.org/visit/madeleinejames/journal

A service celebrating Maddie's life will be at 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 20, at Heritage Park in Dana Point overlooking Dana Point Harbor and the Ocean Institute.

The Maddie James Foundation passed the $200,000 fundraising mark this past weekend, and the goal is to reach the $1-million mark by June 11, which would have been Maddie’s sixth birthday.

Here is the statement:

Dear Family and Friends,

It is with great sadness that Kajsa and I have to inform you that our dear, sweet Maddie has passed away and is now an angel in Heaven.  She died at 9 pm on Sunday evening, March 13, 2011.  Kajsa sang her the night night songs she has sung to her since birth and kissed her on the cheek, and Maddie took her last breath.  We were right beside her.

While we hoped we would have more time with her, we are grateful that she died peacefully in her sleep at home.  She experienced no pain and no fear.  For that, we are eternally grateful.  We will miss her with all our heart and soul, but feel so privileged to have had the incredible honor of being this amazing girl's parents.  She was the most beautiful, funny, intelligent and warm-hearted person we have ever known.  

We will be in touch soon with plans for the service in celebration of her life.  Details will follow, but it will take place on Sunday, March 20, 2011, in Dana Point overlooking Dana Point Harbor and the Ocean Institute.

Thank you all for your incredible love and support throughout this difficult time. 

We love you.

Collie