Obituaries

Cynthia E. Paris, lovingly known as “Cindy” or “Nanny,” passed away leaving behind a legacy of service, devotion, and unwavering love. Born on October 1, 1949, in Aurora, Illinois, to Ardath and Alvin L. Paris, Cindy’s life was shaped by deep commitment—to her family, to veterans, and to the community she served wholeheartedly.

Cindy’s passion for the Veterans of Foreign Wars began early. On her 16th birthday, October 1, 1965, she joined VFW Auxiliary 5036 St. Charles Memorial under the eligibility of her father, Alvin L. Paris, who served in the U.S. Army in Europe during World War II from 1944–1945. This moment marked the start of a lifelong dedication. She became a life member on April 19, 1990, and throughout her decades of involvement, she faithfully served in Auxiliaries 6791, 5036, and 6719.

Cindy’s leadership was recognized early and often. She served as the 19th District President from 1983–1984 and held numerous offices and chairmanships over the years. Her longest and most cherished chairmanship was as VFW National Home Chairman, a role that reflected her deep desire to support veterans’ families. One of Cindy’s greatest ambitions was to be a part of the Department of Illinois leadership. She began that journey as Chief of Staff in 1988 and proudly served as Department of Illinois President in 1993. Even afterward, Cindy continued to give her time, talent, and heart to countless appointed offices and chairmanships, never wavering in her commitment.

Among her many accomplishments, Cindy’s work as a National Home Trustee held a profoundly special place in her heart. She believed fiercely in the mission of the VFW National Home and devoted endless hours to ensuring its success. Her belief was simple and lived every day: family does not always come from blood—it comes from love, loyalty, and choice.

That belief shaped her second great passion: her nieces, Milisa and Stephanie. Growing up in St. Charles, Illinois, Cindy became lifelong friends with the Henigan family, and when Dan and Jill Henigan welcomed their daughters, Cindy was there from the very beginning. To the girls, she was “Nanny”—a constant source of laughter, guidance, adventures, and unconditional love. From first movies to cross-country travels, from sharing her love of the VFW to celebrating weddings and the arrival of new generations, Cindy poured her heart into Milisa and Stephanie. They—and later their children—were truly the joy of her life.

Cindy is survived by her beloved nieces, Milisa K. Johnson (James Johnson) of Leesburg, VA, and Stephanie Henigan (Jeff Larson) of Frisco, TX; her cherished great- niece Grace Johnson; and her great-nephews Lane Larson and Nash Larson. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ardath and Alvin Paris.

In honor of Cindy’s lifelong commitment to service and her devotion to veterans’ families, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to the VFW National Home: info@vfwnationalhome.org or 866-483-9642.

Cindy’s life was one of purpose, love, and enduring dedication. Her legacy will continue to live on in the lives she touched, the veterans she supported, and the family she held so dearly in her heart.

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