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Cynthia “Cindy” DeGray Cushing, 72, born in West Haven on May 20, 1949, to the late Robert DeGray and Gloria Gambino DeGray, entered into eternal rest Feb. 9, 2022, at Hospice in Branford. She worked for the V.A. Hospital for more than 30 years as a statistical programmer for many clinical trials that changed the lives of veterans.

Cindy loved the beach, knitting, camping, boating, traveling, paddle boarding, dancing to “Love Shack,” Cape Cod, UConn women’s basketball, the Patriots, and family gatherings and truly lived each day to the fullest. One of her greatest accomplishments was earning her college degree from Southern Connecticut State University all while taking care of her family. Out of all these things, Cindy was most proud of her family. She married her best friend and West Haven High School sweetheart James “Jim” Cushing at just 20 years old. Married for almost 52 years, the soul mates were attached at the hip. Their love for one another was obvious in the tender way they looked at each other, and in Cindy’s final moments when Jim selflessly took care of her every need.

Jim and Cindy shared three children, Tricia Cushing, Robert (Kelly) Cushing, and Craig (Shannon) Cushing. Cindy was a patient and kind mother who taught her children the value of education and hard work. In her retirement, Cindy enjoyed traveling with Jim, especially to Cape Cod, New York City, Rome, cruises to the Caribbean, the National Parks, and Florida. She adored her four precious grandchildren, Brady, Colby, Lyla, and Elexa, and lived to make the holidays special for them. Cindy loved being their “Neena” and “CC.” She passionately watched their hockey, soccer, golf, and basketball games and was in the front row clapping at dance performances.

Her festive, Italian Christmas Eve celebrations were so special and full of love, food, and everything good. She was the first one on the dance floor, the last one to leave, and had the most beautiful smile. Even when she was sick with pancreatic cancer, she called to check in on her family to make sure they were okay. She was generous, never complained, and had a warrior spirit.

In addition to her husband, children, and grandchildren, Cindy is survived by her beloved dog Annie, her sister Cheryl (Butch) Velardi, her brother-in-law John (Gail) Cushing, and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The Cushings wish to thank Smilow Cancer Center and the Hospice nurses for the special care and peace they provided to both Cindy and the family in her final days.

The visiting hours were Feb. 14 at The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Feb. 15 in St. Frances Cabrini Church, North Haven. Interment followed in All Saints Cemetery. For her online obituary, please visit www.northhavenfuneral.com.