Cynthia Jean Kenneally

Cynthia "Cindy" Jean Kenneally, aged 71, passed away on June 27, 2024, in Pflugerville, Travis County, Texas. She was born on June 9, 1953, in the hospital on Warren Air Force Base, Laramie County, Wyoming to Eugene Jerome “Jay” Kenneally and Norma Jean Sigler Kenneally. By age two, she had already become an international traveler as her father was deployed to Germany. The family returned to the United States in 1958, and for some time, her family lived at Holoman AFB near Alamogordo New Mexico. There, the family often enjoyed playing on the nearby White Sands. Her high school years were spent in Abilene, Texas where she graduated from Cooper High School in 1971 after having been actively involved in the Red Cross club, FTA, and Thespians. As a student at the University of Wyoming, in Laramie, Wyoming she became a Chi Omega legacy, following in the footsteps of her mother. She graduated from UW in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree, majoring in psychology and social work. Cindy furthered her passion for helping others by obtaining a Masters Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Cindy then returned to the Texas she loved and was soon hired by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, rising to the level of Director of various programs. Her work often involved improving the services given to various vulnerable populations, such as those living in nursing homes and hospices or those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. During Cindy’s time in the Regulatory Department, she was instrumental in identifying risks and helping establish protocols and Hospice policy that were foundational in improving provider compliance. During her 43-year tenure, Cindy was a part of 4 different state agencies. Her career was marked by unwavering dedication and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on many. Cindy had a profound love for animals, especially dogs and birds, her fur babies and her feathered friends, which brought her immense joy and companionship throughout her life. She is survived by her sister, Debra Lee Telles, and nephews Aaron Telles and Tyler Telles. Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene Jerome "Jay" Kenneally and Norma Jean Sigler and nephew, Ricky Telles. She was a devoted daughter, and a kind, loving, and giving sister and aunt. She made friends and co-workers feel valued, and she had a gift of remembering even the names of their family members and inquiring after them. She had a keen intellect and an infectious laugh, and with family and fellow UW graduates, she was always up for a rousing rendition of Ragtime Cowboy Joe. Her memory will be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her ashes will be buried near her mother’s.

Cynthia Jean Kenneally

June 9, 1953 - June 28, 2024