Cindy Leveron

Lucinda Ann "Cindy" Leveron, 76, of Jefferson City, Missouri, passed away peacefully Friday, June 28, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family.
She was born on July 22, 1947, in Vincennes, Indiana, the daughter of the late Hanly Theodore and Stella Frances (Howerton) Sims. Growing up in Bicknell, Indiana, Cindy graduated from North Knox High School in 1965. She continued her education at Indiana University in Bloomington, graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1969.
On February 14, 1970, she was happily united in marriage to Michael Bernard "Mike" Leveron in Bicknell, Indiana. He preceded her in death on January 10, 1993.
Developing a passion for healthcare at an early age, Cindy began her career as a registered nurse while still in Indiana. Her young family relocated to Jefferson City in 1974 and she started her tenure at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital for nearly 40 years until her retirement in 2014. She gained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing certification and devoted the latter part of her career to behavioral health patients.
Always an assertive and fiercely passionate advocate for her patients, Cindy took great pride in her duties and responsibilities as a nurse. She fought for their best interests, ensuring they received the best care possible, even if it was inconvenient for doctors at times. Her passion for her work carried over into her family life where she was referred to as the family's "resident doctor" and always provided care when needed, most recently for her brother, Starlin, during his recent health battles.
Cindy's outgoing personality and acceptance of others allowed her to connect with people from all walks of life. She was known for bringing people together through hosting celebrations such as an Oscar Awards watch party, a birthday/retirement, or any holiday, but especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cindy's ability to support and acknowledge others made the people around her feel seen and appreciated. She found joy in being in the kitchen, sharing family recipes, and creating memories with those she loved most. She looked forward to her weekly beauty shop visits where she cherished the female camaraderie that became a large part of her life.
Giving back to her community was a core part of Cindy's life. She was a longtime member of the First Christian Church where she served as an elder and the director of the food pantry for many years. Never wanting to turn anyone away, her motto became, "If they come and we have food, we will feed them." She also devoted time to Project Homeless during her retirement. In addition, she continually helped with local Boy Scouts of America Troop 333 through the church, providing them with many community service hours and aiding their fundraising efforts. A true activist in her community, her nonjudgemental kindness and generous spirit will be remembered by countless people and cherished by those she served.
Outside of work and community activism, Cindy enjoyed numerous hobbies including traveling, shopping, singing and playing piano, going to the movies and to the theater to see musical productions, playing word and board games, sending cards, and planting flowers.
Some of her most memorable trips include cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, to Las Vegas, where she was known to be a pretty sharp Texas Hold'Em player at the tables, and abroad to Europe, Singapore, and Malaysia. Cindy also cherished family trips to her home state of Indiana, as well as trips to Hawaii, Colorado, the butterfly garden with her granddaughter, the Oregon coast, and the redwood forests.
Cindy revered time with her family above all. She supported her daughter, granddaughter, and family in all their activities, rarely missing an event they were involved in. When her daughter was young, she enjoyed road trips to various dance workshops and designing a variety of costumes for performances. Christmas was her favorite holiday to spend with her family, making sure she spoiled them with mounds of gifts and lasting memories. Her youthfulness and witty sense of humor were unique attributes that set her apart from most. Cindy will be remembered for her strong, intelligent, and loving nature and her legacy will be cherished by those blessed to know and love her.
Survivors include her daughter, Kelly Ann Leveron of Jefferson City; granddaughter, Autumn M. Cornell of Columbia; honorary grandson, Devin Jones of Columbia; brother, Starlin H. Sims (Cheryl) of Bicknell, Indiana.; nieces, Jennifer Sims (Justin) of Hilo, Hawaii and Autumn Butler of Martinsville, Indiana; nephew, Starlin L. Sims (Kelly) of Bicknell, Indiana; and several great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hanly and Frances; loving husband, Mike; and son, John M. Leveron.
Visitation will be held Friday, July 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Freeman Mortuary.
Funeral services will take place Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at First Christian Church (327 E Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101) with the Reverend Dr. Michael Dunn officiating. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery (919 Willow St, Vincennes, IN 47591).
The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support throughout her illness. Your prayers, cards, hospital visits, and hugs meant the world to us. A special thank-you to Larry Neill, Patty Buechter, and Jan Alexander for their steadfast support and guidance through this difficult journey.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to The First Christian Church- Food Pantry (327 E Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101).
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.