By the family

Nov. 20, 2024: Cynthia Towell Shively, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2024. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, positivity, and love that touched all who knew her.

Born on April 3, 1930, in Bronxville, New York, Cynthia graduated from Bronxville High School in 1948 and went on to earn her degree from Pine Manor College (now part of Boston College) in 1950.

Cynthia often reminisced fondly about her childhood, especially time spent on her family farm, despite the bumpy rides there. She took pride in her father, who emigrated from England at age 12 and went on to become Treasurer of 20th Century Fox, though his passing when she was only 13 was a profound loss. Cynthia’s resilience and radiant spirit, however, filled every room with joy and uplifted everyone around her.

In September 1947, Cynthia met her husband, George S. Shively, when she starred as Mary in a local theater production of John Loves Mary. Their love story blossomed, leading to their marriage on October 17, 1948, in Bronxville, with her lifelong friend Becky Underhill serving as maid of honor. George was captivated by Cynthia’s grace and charm and amazed by her musical talent, including her skill with the ukulele.

Throughout her life, Cynthia dedicated herself to teaching and volunteered at summer camps, where she shared her love of music by playing piano for children. She was an active member of The Reformed Church of Bronxville, where she built meaningful friendships and cherished the music that filled the sacred space. In a touching moment during her 94th birthday week, Pastor Matt honored her as a modern-day Barnabas, a testament to her spirit of encouragement and faith—a tribute that brought her great joy and filled her with awe.

Cynthia is survived by her daughters, Lucy Shively, Sally Shively, and Cynthia May, as well as her daughter-in-law, Jenny Shively; her son-in-law, Jacob May; and her grandsons, Benjamin Hume, Zachary Tyler Shively, and Joseph Sydney Shively. She was preceded in death by her husband, George, and her son, George Sydney Shively.

Cynthia was a magnetic presence, a friend to everyone, and a confidante whose warmth and kindness extended far beyond her family. She was the friend you could share stories with over brunch, the encouraging text you needed, and a maternal figure to many. Her love and grace will be deeply missed by the Bronxville community and beyond.

A service in honor of Cynthia was held on Friday, November 8, at The Reformed Church of Bronxville, followed by a reception where friends and family gathered to celebrate her beautiful life and enduring impact.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Reformed Church of Bronxville in Cynthia’s name, celebrating her unwavering love for her faith and community.