Cindy O'Malley

Cindy Watson O’Malley, born June 9, 1954, in Nichols Connecticut, lived a life of faith, joy, compassion, friendship, and love.
Cindy is survived by her adoring husband Dan, her children Dan Jr, (Kara), Katie Gamache (Charlie), Patti Bryan (Jeff), her grandchildren Drew, Ainsley, Albie, Lainey, Watty, Maisie, Josie, and was predeceased by her precious granddaughter Addie. Cindy peacefully took her last breath holding Dan’s hand, at home on Wednesday, January 29th. Cindy was predeceased by her parents Bert and Susie Watson and is survived by her sister Wendy Sienko, brother Bret Watson, soulmate and cousin Judy Gustin, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.
Cindy was taken too soon from all of us by both pancreatic and breast cancer. Throughout her cancer journey Cindy approached every day, as she had throughout her entire life, with grateful joy and a sense of wonder and amazement. Cancer could not hold her back.
Cindy shared her gift of compassion and caring with everyone that she met. She always saw the best in people. When Cindy entered a room people rushed to greet her, hug her, and speak with her. What was important to you was important to Cindy, and you knew it!
Cindy was a faithful and active member of St. Andrew’s Church for over 45 years. She was a past member of the Vestry and served on many important committees through the years. Being a founding member of the Ronald McDonald House in Springfield, providing a home away from home for families with children undergoing essential and specialized medical treatment, was one of her proudest accomplishments. Cindy spent many years at Longmeadow High School, first as a librarian and finally in Pupil Services. Several of her students still call her mom. A longtime member of The Field Club of Longmeadow, Cindy enjoyed countless mornings and afternoons on the tennis and paddle courts with good friends. Always looking to stay fit Cindy started running at age 58 and never looked back!
The family thanks Dr. Philip Glynn, the entire team at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center, especially Lisa, Lindsay, Cailene, Yvonne, Anne, Patti, Ashley, and Cindy: as well as the doctors, nurses and all caregivers at Trinity Mercy Medical Center, and Stella at Beacon Hospice. The respectful and compassionate care and support that they provided Cindy will never be forgotten. We always believed that there were angels, and we finally met them at Sister Caritas, Mercy Medical and Beacon.
Join us for a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 15th at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 335 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow. The family will receive condolences at St. Andrews prior to the service. Cindy always loved a hat party, hats and fascinators are welcomed and encouraged. Cindy’s ashes will be scattered at the convenience of the family. The Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Cindy’s name to Sister Caritas Cancer Center 271 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104 or The Ronald McDonald House of Springfield 34 Chapin Terrace, Springfield, MA 01107. See toomeyobrien.com for online condolences and more information.