Cynthia “Cindy” DeGray Cushing, 72, born in West Haven on May 20, 1949 to the late Robert DeGray and Gloria Gambino DeGray, entered in to eternal rest on February 9, 2022 at Hospice in Branford. She worked for the VA Hospital for over 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, 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 of 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 twenty 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, NYC, 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 will be Monday, February 14th from 4pm-7pm at The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in St. Frances Cabrini Church, North Haven, on Tuesday morning, February 15th at 10:00. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.
JIm, Tricia, Bob, and Craig and families. My deepest condolences. I’m sureMom is up in heaven as she was the sweetest,, kind person. The memories ofallthe hockey games. RIP Cindy
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Such a lovely tribute to a beautiful person..I am so pleased to have shared some precious moments with her and the family..She will be truly missed
Cindy will be so missed – I always think of her when I hear the song ‘Love Shack’ – she is dancing in heaven. We are so truly sorry for your great loss. Words seem so empty at times like this but know our hearts are with you.
Dear Jimmy, my heart is breaking for you and the kids. Cindy was such a special person and someone we will always remember with very fond memories. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Much love, Deborah
Such a beautiful woman I feel blessed to have spent much of my married life sharing in her friendship. I have so many wonderful memories of her. She never changed. Always smiling and full of life. I am so sorry for your families loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Our deepest sympathies and prayers 🙏🏼 for Jim and family. Peace and love to you all.
Kathy and Joe Connor
Sentinel Hill Rd.
Our Hearts are broken for You All. What a Super Lady that was so sweet, kind and a joy spend time with. Her Family was number one and we were All blessed to have her in our lives.
Treasure All of the wonderful memories! ❤️
So very sorry to learn of the passing. Such a warm and beautiful woman with an amazing family. Condolences.
Jimmy and family we are saddened to hear this. Cindy always beautiful , Very friendly love talking to her with her beautiful smile. Lotta energy We had a lot of dances at the yacht clubs. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family God bless
Jim I’m so sorry to hear of your loss we had lots of fun many years ago on the boats with the both of you she was one of the sweetest persons I met she will be missed your all in my prayers ..Sue marazzi
Jim, Tricia, Bobby and Craig… Alan and I are so saddened to hear of Cindy’s passing. I will always remember her beautiful smile, her fun and carefree way, and how much fun I had doing aerobics with her and other women from the neighborhood. We were blessed to know her!
Jim and Family, Dave and I are so sad to hear of Cindy’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Cindy always had a smile on her face, and was warm and friendly to everyone she met. God Bless.
Dear Jim and family
Although no words can really help to ease your loss, know that you are in our thoughts.