Cynthia G. Dumas

Cynthia G. Dumas , age 64, of Bellingham, WA, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. On February 15, 2025, Cynthia was diagnosed with acute monocytic myeloid leukemia (AML). She faced the next four months with remarkable strength, resilience, and the same fierce love that defined her life. Born on June 2, 1961, in Thibodaux, Louisiana, she was the daughter of Raymond “Daddie” Linberg Gros and Imelda “Mommie” Monica (Oubre). In July 2005, Cynthia and her family left Louisiana and planted new roots in Bellingham, Washington, where she spent the last 20 years of her life continuing to grow, love, and thrive. To know Cynthia was to experience warmth, laughter, and generosity in abundance. She was known affectionately by many names—Deddie, Miss Cynthia, De Von, Dee, Grandma—and no matter what you called her, she made you feel like family. With a vivacious spirit, a radiant smile, and a heart that made everyone feel welcome, she brought joy into every space she entered. Whether through he soulful cooking, spontaneous dance moves, or her effortless ability to connect with anyone—she left a lasting impression wherever she went. Cynthia never met a stranger. She had a way of striking up conversation and forming friendships in the most unexpected places. From grocery store lines to parks to countless adventures, her life was filled with moments of connection and kindness. She remembered faces long after names were forgotten and carried a natural magnetism that drew people to her. Her work life was just as full. In Louisiana, she held a variety of jobs including at the racetrack, Thibodaux General Hospital, and DMV. After relocating to Washington, she continued to pour her energy into her community by working at Payless, Macy’s, and later with the Bellingham School District as a lead food services worker. In each role, she was known not just for her dedication, but for the light she brought with her. Outside of work, Cynthia’s joy spilled into every part of her life. She loved spending time with her family and friends, traveling, free events, cooking, eating, gardening, and especially dancing—whether there was music playing or people watching. Her joy for life was contagious. She was always the first to hit the dance floor, even if it meant dancing alone, and she embraced every opportunity to laugh, sing, and celebrate. Her kitchen was always filled with the smell of something delicious and the sound of music or laughter. She embraced every season of life with curiosity and an open heart, often picking up new hobbies through her kids, her friends, or her own spark of interest. Her proudest role, without a doubt, was being a mother and grandmother. Her love for her children and grandchildren was boundless. Her newest grandson, Silas, was a bright spot in her final months, and she cherished every moment spent with him.

Cynthia is survived by her children: Jerlyn Dumas of Thibodaux, LA; Marvin Dumas Jr. of Washington, D.C.; and Lia (Efren) Dumas of Bellingham, WA; her grandchildren: Añya and King Dumas, and Silas Villarreal; her mother, Imelda Gros; her siblings: Mary Charlene (Junius) Julien, Raymond (Terry) Gros Jr., Andrew (Debraca) Gros, Estella (Jack) Stewart, and Leslie (Nikki-Giovanni) Gros; and many nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Dumas Sr., and her father, Raymond Gros Sr. Cynthia’s legacy is one of joy, generosity, and deep love. Her presence will be felt in every meal shared, every song sung out loud, every kind gesture, and every burst of laughter that lights up a room. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family’s GoFundMe to help with expenses, or in her honor to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) or the Whatcom Humane Society. If you’d like to support our family or donate in her memory, here’s the GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/530b8cdb