Cynthia "Cindy" Downing

Cynthia "Cindy" Downing, 77, of Plymouth, New Hampshire, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 12, 2026. Born in Plymouth in 1948 to Julia W. Moody Downing and Edward G. Downing, she grew up in the town where she would spend her entire life. She graduated from Plymouth State College with a bachelor's degree in education.

Cindy worked diligently throughout her life. She began as a soda jerk at Geyer's Pharmacy, later provided customer service at Guinan's Ski and Sport, and worked at Hawkensen Enterprises during the 1980s. For more than four decades, she helped operate two home-based businesses, HDA Technical Services and Bonnie Brae Farms. She also gave generously of her time as a volunteer with the Smith Bridge Restoration Committee, Smith Bridge Historical Committee, Northeast Deer and Elk Farmers Association, and the Pemi-Baker Valley Republican Committee.

A private woman of quiet strength, Cindy found her greatest joy in simple pleasures: spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, fresh flowers, dinners out, family holidays, making deviled eggs when the shells peeled perfectly, playing card games, singing Christmas carols while decorating the tree, singing along to familiar songs on television, watching TV during supper, coffee, and above all, chocolate. Her warm smile brought light to everyone she met.

She is survived by her life partner, Henry Ahern, Jr.; her children, Danielle Downing and Kristen Downing de Almeida; grandchildren Jonathen de Almeida (partner Danielle Bragdon) and Rachael Downing Santos; great-grandchildren Mercy and Logan de Almeida; her brother Niles Downing (wife Terry); niece Jennifer Yeaton (husband Ken); nephews Christopher Downing (wife Amanda) and Aaron Downing (wife Heather); and many beloved great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.