Cecilia Dennings

1951 - 2025

Cecilia Dennings
12/03/1951 - 06/01/2025
Cecilia Elizabeth Libby, a woman of unwavering faith and devotion, passed away surrounded by the love and memories of a life rich in family, service, and story on June 1. Born on December 3, 1951, in San Francisco, California, she was the fourth of six children to Robert William "Bill" Libby and Catherine Marie "Kay" Carey.
Cecilia grew up in a bustling, close-knit household alongside her siblings - Michael Robert (deceased as an infant), Linda Mary, Rowena Alta, Patricia Louise, and Pamela Sue. Despite challenges, she often spoke of the joy, strength, traditions, and love that united her family, including her nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
Her early years were deeply shaped by strong family roots and her Catholic faith. Baptized at St. Emydius Catholic Church and confirmed at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Cecilia cultivated a lifelong passion for learning and service. She attended Glen Park & Fairmont Elementary Schools, James Lick Junior High, and graduated from Lowell High School in January 1970. She maintained close bonds with precious cousins and cherished childhood and school friends. Her dedication to Girl Scouts extended into adulthood, where she earned numerous leadership pins and organized community events.
Cecilia married four times, each union adding chapters of growth and resilience. At 19, she married Thomas William Handley on December 27, 1970, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in San Francisco. They welcomed their daughter, Aysha Marie Handley, on January 31, 1973, at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Beaufort, South Carolina. Aysha remained the greatest joy and constant in Cecilia's life.
On March 8, 1980, she married Ronald Steven Blackwell. On December 31, 1993, Cecilia married Richard Michael Silvestre Reyes, the love of her life, in Redwood City, California. Their marriage was defined by deep faith, partnership, and devotion. Cecilia described Rich as the most loving, kind man she had ever known, and their years together brought her immense joy and peace.
Later in life, Cecilia found joy and companionship again, marrying Cecil Leroy Dennings, Sr. on November 26, 2016, at Living Hope Church in Dixon, California.
Though Cecilia always dreamed of being a teacher, her professional life began in high school, leading to nearly 26 years of service with the federal government, including 17 years with the U.S. Geological Survey. After early retirement, she continued serving her community in local school districts, including roles at Monte Vista High School and Stone Valley Middle School in the San Ramon Valley School District.
A lifelong genealogist, Cecilia's passion for family history ignited at a young age and blossomed after watching Roots in 1977. For decades, she dedicated herself to researching and documenting family lineage, publishing books and organizing reunions. Her work connected generations and preserved the legacies of those who came before her, including early American settlers like John Alden and Priscilla Mullins of Mayflower fame.
Over the years, Cecilia lived in various California locations, including San Francisco, Redwood City, Menlo Park, Mountain View, San Ramon, and Dixon. Each home reflected her love for family, faith, and tradition. Her warmth, wit, and empathy left lasting impressions on everyone she met.
A celebration of life will be held in her honor on August 24 from 1 to 4 PM at 1305 N 1st St, Dixon, CA 95620. All are welcome to gather and share memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a local genealogy society or church that supports family research and preservation, reflecting Cecilia's life's work and deepest passion.