Madison Owl

Madison Owl, 63 of Cottonwood, AZ passed away on Monday September 15, 2025.

She lived in New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona for the past 19 years.  She enjoyed the open land and plenty of sunshine which allowed her and her beloved dogs the ability to hike and explore in so many areas. 

She loved to learn and after she graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in Scottsdale, her most recent position was the Dietary Director at Cottonwood Village.

Her lifelong love of learning also combined with her deep spirituality. She walked the Camino de Santiago in 2001 after which she continued with intensive studies in Metaphysical Science until the end of her life. 

Madison loved animals and had many dog and cat companions over the years.  She was artistic, including painting and stained glass.  She authored a book and continued to write throughout her life.  She was an avid reader.  She was happiest at learning, exploring and working with animals. 

Madison was born Heidi Alexandra Ernst to Walter S. Ernst, Jr. and Clara-Gordon Ernst in Oak Ridge, TN on Nov. 19, 1961.  Her love of animals started on her family’s farm in Stanfordville, NY.  She received her BA in Fine Arts from Temple University; MA in Counseling from Antioch New England; Master’s Degrees in Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning from the University of Massachusetts.

Madison is survived by her sister Margaret Winkler-Hoffmann, brother Walter S. Ernst III; niece Larissa Winkler; nephews Jeremy Winkler, Walter S. Ernst IV (Erin) and Nicholas Ernst (Nicole); 1 great niece, 3 great nephews, and her dear friend Avalon Lionheart.  She is predeceased by her parents and her brother-in-law Marvin Hoffmann.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in her name to: Charity Water charitywater.org or an animal sanctuary of your choice.

We would like to thank the first responders of Verde Valley and the Verde Valley Medical Center for their work and care.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

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