Hello…
Cindy Hughart-Hill passed away in the morning hours of October 18th, 2009 after a long battle with cancer and in the company of loved ones. Battle is a euphemism not welcomed by all in reference to cancer but we can think of
no other way to explain the kind of determination and will to live that Cindy exhibited throughout her illness. Left behind are her husband Cregg, her family, and her many friends.
This website was created with the intention of keeping Cindy’s memory alive through shared stories reflecting the many ways she touched our lives. All comments are welcome here, happy and sad- anecdotes describing Cindy’s unique character, the special place Cindy held in our life, feelings of grief. By sharing perhaps we can help each other through the profound loss of our wife, sister, aunt, cousin, and dear friend.
Collin & Russell says:
We love you Aunt Cindy. XO Collin and Russell
Angelena Medrano says:
Ms. Hughart was my h.s english teacher. She was actually my favorite teacher. I remember her always being so happy. She had such a passion for teaching. I enjoyed being a part of her class. Even though its been 11 yrs since I have been in H.S..I have always thought about Ms.Hughart and I am truly sad to hear of her passing. Rest in peace Ms. Hughart. You will be truly missed
Henry Hernandez says:
Hearing about the loss of my former high school classmate Cindy brought sadness to my heart. We did not know each other very well, but I remember a gentleness of spirit that I’m sure many have also experienced. I will always remember her fondly, may she rest in peace.
Mary Jackson says:
I’m so sorry.
Cindy was a fun, lively, happy person when I knew her on 7th Place and I’m sure that in the rest of her life she carried that attitude with her.
I’m saying prayers for you all.
Mary Jackson
Grace Henley says:
Because we were both H’s, Cindy and I shared homeroom and frequently sat close to each other in class during our years at Santa Clara. I will always remember her wonderful smile–I can see from her photo that it didn’t dim over the years. I was in awe of Cindy as a swimmer–I think of her every time I consider going in the water (which I usually reconsider, and then don’t do….) We missed her at our recent 40 year reunion, and many warm thoughts went her way. For Cindy’s family and close friends, I know this brings a sorrow for which the heart can never be prepared–please accept my condolences, thoughts and prayers.
Joan Deslauries Hosmer says:
I remember Cindy not only from Santa Clara High, but also from grammar school at St. Anthony’s. She was a fun-loving person & had an unforgettable smile. My heart goes out to her family. She left this world too soon. Rest in peace, Cindy.
Katherine (Becker) Anderson says:
Dear Susie and family,
Frank and I were so sorry to learn of Cindy’s passing. I remember both of you from our swim team days.
I was so pleased to read of her accomplishments and her love of teaching. It is great, too, that swimming remained part of her life.
We both sent our deepest sympathies. Know that we are thinking of you in this time of sorrow.
Richard Laubly says:
I first met Cindy at Ventura Junior College in 1970. Then we both ended up as English majors at Sonoma State College, where we did a lot of hanging out together.
I moved to France in 1980, and from then on we faded in and out of contact with each other. We had been out of touch for a long time when we reconnected through the wonders of internet. I think this was about a year before she was diagnosed with cancer.
I was able to visit her every summer for the past 3 or 4 years when I came to Ojai. In the summer of 2007, she participated in the first ChiWalking class I ever taught, and though it was tiring for her, she remained focused and present for the whole three hours. Another time we had lunch in Ojai and then drove up to the vista point at Meditation Mount.
How I will always remember Cindy: it was probably the very late 70s or very early 80s. I think it took place in Isla Vista or Goleta, but I could be wrong. I had come to visit her, and we decided to go out to dinner. When it was time to go to the restaurant, I asked her if we were taking her car or mine. She then whipped out two skateboards and off we went. I’ll always remember the image of these two “adults”, skateboarding down the sidewalk on their way to dinner, laughing hysterically, weaving their way in and out of the people on the sidewalk.
She will be missed.
Jan Lewis says:
Cindy was so selfless and generous. I loved her demeanor of gentleness. Even when she felt bad she was always worried about how the other person felt.
She maintained her sense of humor, teasing and baiting me into jokes. Once when I drove her to a treatment she swore that the doctor had interest in me, but of course the doctor only had interest in Cindy and her well being. He gave me instructions to take Cindy out to lunch; which we both enjoyed.
Charlie Booker says:
Cindy was about 9 years old when we moved next door to the Hugharts. Some time around age 12 she began babysitting for us. It was a great deal for us since her mom and dad were always just next door should an emergency arise. Not only was she a great babysitter but the kids both liked it when Cindy was going to be staying with them. When she became to “old” to babysit there was Susy ready to take her place. As life is, they grew up, we moved to Ventura and lost contact. Fortunately, we were abel to reconnect a few years ago because she and my wife were both involved with a program with UCSB. I was reading a list of teachers involved in this program and came across the name Cindy Hughart. It was the same Cindy Hughart I had known from before. We got to meet Cregg and were able to visit some. Cindy and I would sometimes meet at the dr’s office. Even tho’ she was very ill at the time there was always a big smile and hugs to go around.
As we all know, Cindy was a beautiful person and knowing her was a true joy.
Charlie & Margaret Booker
vicki & brian hughart says:
Thank you for sharing some of your memories of Cindy with us. It is comforting to hear from people Cindy spent time with, and to read about things you remember. Yes, her smile, sense of humor, and compassion were just a few reasons people enjoyed being around her.
Joyce Phaneuf says:
The Phaneuf family has been an extended part of the Hughart family for over 20 years. Words cannot describe – nor can tears be counted for the sadness this brings to me and my family. May Cindy rest in peace – and save a place for me near her!
Joyce Phaneuf says:
The Phaneuf family has been an extended part of the Hughart family for over 20 years. Words cannot describe – nor can tears be counted for the sadness this brings to me and my family. May Cindy rest in peace – and save a place for me near her! Before the days of cell phones, Cindy was picking me up for the movies. My phone rings and it’s Cindy….”I can’t find your house.” I told her to turn around – she was right in front!
Name says:
Crag and family,Cindy and I was very close because I grew up with her mom Lucy was like my big sister instead of A aunt my mom left me home to be raised by my grandmother and aunt Lucy I loved them so very much. xoxoxo J.J.