Cynthia Marie "Cindy" Welsh

Cynthia "Cindy" Marie Welsh, a beacon of kindness and gentleness, whose life journey began on February 14, 1965, in Roanoke, VA, concluded its earthly chapter on September 1, 2024, in the same loving community where she was born. Cindy's life was a testament to the power of compassion, a narrative of how one person's thoughtful presence can profoundly touch countless lives.

Professionally, Cindy dedicated herself to the noble calling of easing others' burdens as a bereavement counselor for hospice and an administrator for palliative care. She stood as a pillar of solace and understanding, guiding many through their darkest times with a gentle hand and a compassionate heart. Her work was not just a career; it was a manifestation of her innermost values, a daily practice of her deep-rooted desire to help others.

Cindy's passions extended beyond her professional life into the tranquility of her garden, where she cultivated beauty and serenity. Her love for nurturing extended to caring for animals, reflecting her belief in the sanctity of all life. Cindy's garden was a mirror of her soul, a place where peace blossomed, and the vibrancy of her spirit flourished amidst the flowers she so tenderly cared for.

To describe Cindy as kind, thoughtful, and gentle only begins to scratch the surface of the profound impact she had on those around her. She moved through life with a grace that inspired, a gentle force that motivated others to seek the good within themselves and the world around them. Her legacy is not just in the lives she touched, but in the ripple effect of kindness that will continue to spread from those lives to others. Cindy is preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Harvey Shelor and Hazel Wheeler Shelor.

Her family circle expanded with the joyous union to her husband, Jeremy L. Welsh, and the blessing of her daughter, Sarah Dawkins. Cindy's heart knew no bounds, embracing her stepchildren, Austin, Jillian, and Madison Welsh, with open arms; her devoted brothers, Barry Shelor, alongside his wife, Cindy, and Jeff Shelor with his wife, Naomi; and her life was further enriched by the love and laughter of numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2024, in the Abbey at Sherwood Memorial Park, 1250 E. Main St., Salem, VA 24153, with Pastor Neil Wheeler officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made to either the American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer.org/donate.html or to the Roanoke SPCA, https://rvspca.org/donate/

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.