Obituary

Cynthia Denise Howard left this life and went into the loving arms of God on Jan. 28, 2014, after a lengthy battle with cancer. On June 8, 1959, Cindy was born the eldest of three children to Gene and Janice Duncum in Amarillo. Later the family moved to Plainview where Cindy graduated from Plainview High School in December 1976, and on March 5, 1977, married her high school sweetheart and soul mate, Kenneth (Kenny) Edward Howard. Their two children, Alicia and Dustin, were the love of her life. She was devoted to helping people, especially her family, friends and coworkers, always thinking of others' needs before her own. She used her artistic and culinary talents to bring joy to others. Friends describe her as a beautiful woman, loving and supportive, admired for her courage, and an inspiration to all who knew her. Centered upon faith in Jesus Christ, a fitting scripture for Cindy's life: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (1 Timothy 4:7), for which there is no doubt she has heard with her own ears, "Well done my good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). A Celebration of Life for Cindy will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at First Baptist Church, 707 Eighth St., Sealy, Texas, and led by Pastor Chuck Owens. Among the many left to mourn her loss in addition to her devoted husband, children and parents are her sister Dee Anne Machala and husband Mark, her brother Bobby Duncum; mother-in-law Sarah Howard; sisters-in-law, Patricia Howard Sikes, Katrinka Howard Park, Belinda Howard Smith; brother-in- law David Howard; numerous nieces and nephews; and her dog Ruthie, faithful companion who was beside her throughout her illness. Preceding her in death are her grandparents, Harry and Ruth Jones, Clara and Joe Duncum; father-in- law Fred. D. Howard; and brother-in-law Rick Howard. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Cindy's memory be made to American Cancer Society ; Building Fund of First Baptist Church, Sealy, TX; or Brazos Valley Hospice.