Madeleine Rita Macy, a lifelong lover of literature, music, and family, passed away peacefully at her home in Soquel, California, on July 11, 2025, at the age of 77. She was surrounded by her daughters and held in love and light during her final moments.

Born and raised in San Francisco to the late Robert and Janet Johnson, Maddy brought thoughtful intelligence and quiet grace to everything she did. She spent her career serving students in Santa Cruz City Schools as a classified employee, where she was admired for her dedication, warmth, and integrity.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Cybele Candau (Brian) and Laura Bursey (Patrick), and her grandchildren: Zach, Mikaela, Isabelle, and Emmy. Though her immediate family was small, Maddy built a wide and lasting circle of friends and extended family who cherished her deeply.

Her positivity was contagious. Whether at work, on the beach, or at home, she brightened every day with her smile and uplifting spirit. She had a brilliant mind, a sharp wit, and a flair for life–whether reciting Russian history from memory, or sharing her love of classic gangster films, she did it with laughter and ease. A lifelong fashion lover and childhood spelling bee champion, Maddy was as comfortable discussing books as she was embracing the eccentricities of everyday life. She could drive you crazy–and make you feel completely loved, often at the same time.

Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, with her kindness, curiosity, humor, and unwavering love.

A Celebration of Life will be held in October. For more information, please contact Oakwood Memorial Chapel in Santa Cruz, California.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to WomenCARE, or honor Maddy by reading a favorite book, taking a quiet walk, or telling someone you love them–just as she so often did.