Sydney’s Legacy

The Her Spark Sydney Madison Foundation was established to keep Sydney’s memory and the light she brought to others alive following her tragic passing on January 5, 2026. Sydney believed that success does not always follow a traditional path. Through her own experiences, she recognized the growing need to expand career opportunities within the electrical trades- especially for individuals who have determination and talent but face financial barriers.

Sydney graduated from Penta Career Center Construction Electricity Program in 2017. She continued her education through Toledo Electrical JATC, where she graduated in 2023 as an Inside Wireman Journeyman. She became the first woman to receive the Apprentice of the Year Award. As a proud member of her Local and a voice for women in the trade, Sydney broke barriers and became a respected leader within the organization. She served as the first woman elected to the Examining Board and was actively involved as a delegate to the Ohio AFL-CIO, as well as a member of the Woman’s Committee and RENEW Committee. Sydney also earned multiple professional credentials, including her City of Toledo Electrical License, Ohio Fire Alarm Installer and Technician License, and a Michigan Electrical License. In 2025, she continued giving back to the trade by becoming an instructor at Toledo Electrical JATC, helping guide and mentor the next generation of electricians.

She understood that when a single spark is ignited, it has the power to illuminate countless futures.

While Sydney was incredibly accomplished in her career, her life was about so much more than her work.

What truly defined Sydney was her heart. She had a kindness that came naturally and a genuine desire to help others. She was the person who showed up when someone needed support, offered encouragement when someone was struggling, and never hesitated to put others before herself. Whether it was a friend, family member, coworker, student, or complete stranger, Sydney had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and cared for.

She lived life with compassion, generosity, and an unwavering willingness to help those in need. She believed in lifting others up, sharing her knowledge, and making a positive impact wherever she could. The countless lives she touched during her 26 years are a testament to the beautiful person she was.

That same selfless spirit is why organ donation feels like such a perfect reflection of who Sydney was. Even after her passing, she continued doing what she always did in life — helping others. Through the gift of organ, eye, and tissue donation, Sydney saved and changed lives, giving hope to people and families who needed it most.

The Her Spark Sydney Madison Foundation was created to ensure that Sydney's kindness continues to make a difference for years to come. Through scholarships, support for apprentices pursuing careers in the electrical trades, and assistance for individuals and families facing hardship, the foundation carries forward the compassion and generosity that defined Sydney's life. Our goal is not only to honor her memory, but to continue the work she would be doing herself — helping people, lifting others up, and bringing light to those who need it most.

Sydney's story is one of love, kindness, service, and compassion. Her legacy is not only found in the work she accomplished, but in the lives she touched, the people she helped, and the lives she continues to impact every single day. Her light did not end with her passing — it continues to shine through every person she helped, both in life and through the incredible gift of organ donation. Through this foundation, her spark will continue to brighten lives, create opportunities, and remind others that even the smallest act of kindness can change someone's world.