Cynthia Ann DeBenedetto

Cynthia Ann DeBenedetto, 68, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, passed away on May 16, 2025, after a strong and courageous fight, surrounded by the love of her family. Cindy was born on August 23, 1956, to her beloved parents, Neil and Barbara Shepard of Colchester, Vermont. She lived in Vermont before relocating to Florida in 2000.
The love of her life was her devoted husband, Joseph DeBenedetto. Their 19 years of marriage were filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering companionship. Joe was her rock, her partner, and her greatest comfort and friend.
Cindy will be remembered for her boundless creativity, her passion for life, and her kind and generous spirit. A successful businesswoman, she also found deep joy in painting and in spending time with her husband and family. Her warmth and laughter were a comfort to all who knew her. She will be missed more than words can express. She was deeply loved by many.
Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who survive her, including her two children, Adam Smith and Melissa Gebo; her sister, Sharon Shepard (James Rinderle); and her brothers-in-law, Ben DeBenedetto (Adriana) and Steven DeBenedetto (Suzanne). She also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren-Anthony Towsley (Mariah Gutkopf), Chelsea Roy, Brayden Roy, Destiny Gebo, Macy Smith, and Porter Smith-and one cherished great-grandchild, Sidney Towsley. Her nieces and nephews include Amanda Rinderle (Jonas Clark), Allyson Rinderle (William Colt), Ryan Shepard, Steven T. DeBenedetto, Nicholas DeBenedetto, Kevin Lewis and Melanie, Karen, and Ellen (LePage).
She was predeceased by her beloved brother, Brian Shepard, and her first husband, Scott D. Smith, with whom she shared many happy years and two beautiful children.
A celebration of life will be held at Baird-Case Jordan-Fannin Funeral Home, 4343 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 1:00pm-4:00pm.