Cynthia J. Keirs

Cynthia J. Keirs

Cynthia J Keirs (CJ), 92, died at Bedford County Nursing Home on April 8, 2025 after a valiant struggle with stinkin' Alzheimer's. Cynthia was born on Jan 29, 1933 in Springfield, IL. Wife of the late John (Jack) D. Keirs for 58 years.

She was the daughter of the late Henry Martin and Beatrice Dawson Peterson. She was preceded in death by her brother, Wilbur Peterson and sisters, Vivian Kirkevold and Wanda Hein. She is survived by her daughters, Rena (Bob) Binz Aurora, CO and Wendy (Bob) Proffitt Evington, VA and son, Martin (Sherry) Keirs Clover S.C. Also survived by many nieces.

She was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church in Lynchburg. Most importantly, Cynthia loved her lord and savior Jesus Christ. Her faith continued to inspire and empower her into the early years of her valiant struggle with Alzheimer's. She was self-taught and accomplished seamstress, cook, baker, gardener, and florist. She was an incredible mother and homemaker. Her card ministry touched many: her moto was everyone of life's moments should be a Hallmark moment!

While employed as a Special Education Teacher's Aide at Hillcrest Heights Special Center in Maryland, she established an onsite greenhouse creating hands-on learning for her students. This greenhouse project created potential greenhouse employment opportunities as well as a calming balance to school life. Cynthia's love for gardening was her gift that kept giving. She was the self-appointed 'plant lady' for Garman & Proffitt Physical Therapy. For 10 years the clinic plants thrived and many Christmas cactus babies were sent to welcoming homes!

The family would like to give their sincerest appreciation to her Bedford County Nursing Home family for their skilled care, loving support and friendship. CJ's infectious smile and twinkling blue eyes will be missed. Also thank you to friends & family that faithfully sent cards the past years. Alzheimer's can be very isolating; cards can be very uplifting and connecting.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church 20957 Timberlake Rd Lynchburg, VA 24502 or Alzheimer's Foundation of America 332 8th Ave 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

A private family celebration will be conducted at Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia where her loving husband Jack Keirs was inurned 16 years ago. At a later date a celebration of life will take place in Virden Illinois… the hometown of both Cynthia and Jack.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory, (434) 239-2405 is assisting the family. Memories and thoughts may be shared with the family at www.heritagefuneralandcremation.com.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory