Cynthia's obituary
Cynthia Lynne Cervantes 53, of Grapevine, TX died on Saturday, December 4, 2021. Her death was shocking and her family, friends and co-workers are deeply saddened.
Cyndy was an exceptional person, an oncology social worker who dedicated her life to caring for others. Cyndy held a BS in psychology from the University of Houston, a Master's in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, and was a LMSW (licensed master social worker)
Cyndy was born in Long Beach, California. August 7, 1968. She was an active, athletic little girl, who learned to walk, talk and swim at an early age. She loved playing with both dolls and trucks. She had an outgoing personality, a quick wit and a hearty laugh. Her sense of humor and fun served her well throughout her life.
Cyndy loved biking, skateboarding, and played softball throughout her childhood and as an adult. She was on Westminster High School’s varsity diving team for two years, graduating in 1986. Later that year, she moved to the Houston/Galveston Texas area with her mom and stepdad. Aside from her time in the military, Cyndy lived in Texas for the remainder of her life.
After two years of community college, Cyndy enlisted in the US Navy, where she was assigned to the USS Canopus. She served 4 years, was discharged honorably, and subsequently served two years in the Army National Guard reserve.
After returning to Texas, Cyndy, along with several business partners, tried her hand at running a small business. Sadly, this business failed, as many do, but there were valuable life lessons. Cyndy then began working at United Space Alliance and re-enrolled in college. She graduated with a BS in psychology from the University of Houston, moved to Dallas, and began working for Child Protective Services. (CPS). She spent 10 years in various aspects of child social work, eventually transitioning from CPS to working in private group homes; e.g., Our Friends' Place, a group home for girls, and later the Behr Foundation.
While working on her master’s degree, Cyndy did one of her internships at Gilda's Place. Gilda’s Place was founded by the late comedian, Gene Wilder in memory of his wife Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer. Gilda’s Place eventually merged with Cancer Support Community. Cyndy enjoyed the work and mission at Gilda's Place, and was ready to make a move from child social work. 9 years ago Cyndy began working for Cancer Support Community North Texas (CSCNT) Completely free of charge and nonprofit, CSCNT offers a non-residential, homelike setting. providing social and emotional support for patients, family members, or friends with cancer. While at CSCNT Cyndy held the titles of Program Manager and Program Director.
Although Cyndy had a demanding job, she adored her family and friends, and made sure she stayed in their lives. There are so many instances of how Cyndy touched lives with her generosity, advice, or by just being there.
Cyndy is survived by her parents, Rob and Susan Purkiewicz, and Richard and Judy Cervantes, her siblings, Robert Purkiewicz, Jennifer Cervantes, Kristen Avery, Tobin Eversole, many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and her beloved cocker spaniel, Honu. Cyndy was preceded in death by her sister Julie Purkiewicz (3/26/71 - 11/15/20).
Finally, and most importantly, Cyndy was a woman of faith, and lived by the teachings of the Bible. Mark12:30-31. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ …‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ,,,
Rest in eternal peace, darling Cyndy. We will love you forever.
If you are so moved, please consider donating to Cancer Support Community, North Texas in her memory. Donate to CSCNT - Cancer Support Community North Texas (cancersupporttexas.org)
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Cindy had a gift for making you feel special. She smiled with her eyes, and generously expressed warmth and genuine co…
Cindy had a gift for making you feel special. She smiled with her eyes, and generously expressed w…
Cindy had a gift for making you feel special. She smiled with h…
I had the privilege of working with Cyndy at CSCNT and loved my time with her - such a warm, funny, brilliant gal who t…
I had the privilege of working with Cyndy at CSCNT and loved my time with her - such a warm, funny,…
I had the privilege of working with Cyndy at CSCNT and loved my …