Cynthia "Cyndi" Maldonado

Heaven welcomed a beautiful angel on November 24, 2025, with the passing of Cynthia Ann "Cyndi" Maldonado-Salazar, age 63.
Born in San Antonio, Texas, on August 8, 1962, Cyndi's life was a testament to unwavering faith, purity of heart, fierce determination, and an extraordinary drive to succeed.
From a young age, Cyndi felt called to nursing. She first practiced with her play nurse's kit, lovingly using her father as her most loyal patient, who endured countless "examinations" at the capable hands of the future Nurse Maldonado. When she was old enough, she volunteered as a candy striper at downtown Baptist Hospitals, setting in motion a lifelong career of care and service.
Cyndi graduated from Burbank High School and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse by her 18th birthday. Her passion for education led her to UT Health Science Center, where she earned her bachelor's degree in nursing. This achievement ignited two other gifts she would share with the world: teaching and leadership.
Cyndi dedicated herself to educating the next generation of nurses, serving as an LVN instructor at St. Philip's College. With her "all business but fair" approach and deep commitment to nursing ethics, she inspired students who were drawn to her magnetic personality. She encouraged each of them to excel and to continue advancing in the profession she loved so dearly.
Never satisfied with standing still, Cyndi continued her education and completed her master's degree in nursing through the University of Phoenix. With this accomplishment came numerous leadership positions and opportunities to expand her influence within the field. She also earned certification as a Legal Nurse Consultant.
Despite a demanding professional life, Cyndi began working in the SICU at Metropolitan Hospital. It was there that she met her soulmate, Abel B. Salazar. Their love story was one of extraordinary devotion-from a whirlwind romance, to a Christmas morning proposal with Abel dressed as Santa Claus, to a wedding that, even 33 years later, many still say rivaled a royal celebration.
Beyond her professional success, Cyndi was known for her deep love of animals. Every creature, big or small, held a special place in her heart. She would adopt them herself or find loving homes for animals in need, ensuring they were cared for and cherished. There is no doubt that their four beloved dogs-three Bichons and one Maltese-were waiting to greet her in Heaven with endless kisses from their Mama.
Cyndi was preceded in death by her parents, Reuben and Sarah Maldonado; her brother, Roland Maldonado; and her nephews, Thomas Maldonado and Christopher Louis Fuentes.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Abel Salazar; brother David Maldonado (Sophia); sister Belinda Peche; nieces Lesley Peche-Contero (Roger), Leeza Peche (Adam), and Pamela Maldonado; nephew David Maldonado (Marilyn); Sister-in-law Bebe Maldonado and by Roland Garcia (Tricia); and Great-Nephew Fin Reed Contero. She is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She is further survived by her in-laws, Andrew and Gregoria Salazar; brother-in-law Andrew Jr. (Tabitha); sister-in-law Deborah Ciccotti (Harold "Magi"); brother-in-law Alan Salazar; niece Valerie (Alex); nephews Andy Salazar (Roslyn) and Reagan; and many extended family members who loved her deeply.
Cyndi was a woman of tremendous faith. Her trust in Jesus Christ brings comfort to those who mourn her, knowing she is now in the presence of her Savior, free from pain and suffering.
"For now, I will hold you in my heart, until I can hold you in Heaven. Give our boys hugs and kisses from their Daddy. I love you, Princess Angel-always and forever."