Cindy Graves

In Loving Memory of Cindy Graves August 29, 1952 – August 23, 2025

Cindy Graves, a radiant light in the lives of so many, passed away peacefully at home on August 23rd, just days shy of her 73rd birthday. Born at St. Ann's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, Cindy lived a life full of laughter, love, and boundless generosity.

A proud graduate of Columbus South High School, Cindy went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Franklin University and a master's from the University of Dayton. Her career as Assistant Registrar at both Capital University and Ohio Dominican was more than a job-it was a calling. She guided countless students through the maze of college life, offering not just academic support but heartfelt mentorship. Many of her student aides became "adopted daughters," and hundreds more considered her a lifeline during their most formative years.

Cindy was a force of nature-equal parts athlete, adventurer, and cheerleader for life. She water-skied with grace, snow-skied with gusto, and played softball and volleyball with a competitive sparkle. For the past ten years, she found joy and community on the pickleball court, where her energy and laughter were as contagious as her serve. She was also a devoted member of Twig, supporting Nationwide Children's Hospital, and found joy in her book club, where stories were shared and friendships deepened.

But Cindy's greatest gift was her heart. She was the glue that held family and friends together, no matter the distance or time apart. Her warmth, humor, and unwavering support created a web of love that stretched across generations and geographies. She remembered birthdays, showed up for milestones, and made everyone feel like they mattered.

Cindy was preceded in death by her loving parents, Bill and Norma Jacks, her brother Jay Jacks, and nephew Daivd Hickle. She is survived by her devoted husband, Steve Graves; her son Matt Graves and daughter-in-law Catherine Graves; her sister Beth Hickle; grandchildren Bella Graves, Laken Graves, Shai Casillas, and Cayley Bobo; and great-grandchildren Camryn, Charlotte, Elisha, and Isabella Casillas. She also leaves behind a cherished circle of cousins-Sue Bazuly, Kathy Coffman, Jane Hutchison, Becky Porter-and first cousins once removed David Myers, Daniel Myers, and Shawn Hutchison.

Her legacy is one of kindness, connection, and joy. Cindy didn't just live life-she embraced it, shared it, and made it better for everyone lucky enough to know her.

In honor of Cindy's life and her courageous spirit, contributions may be made to the Parkinson Foundation at www.Parkinson.org.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home – Pickerington, located at 550 Hill Road N, Pickerington, OH 43147.

Visitation will follow the service and continue until 5:00 PM.

DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME, Pickerington, has been entrusted with helping the family through this difficult time. Online condolences may be made at www.spencefuneralhome.com.