Cynthia Howard Canning, of Raleigh, North Carolina, joined the angels on April 7, 2026. Born on April 28, 1948, she was the cherished daughter of Betty Lou and Charles W. Howard, Jr.

Cindy grew up in Greenville, North Carolina, where her joyful spirit and devotion were already evident as she proudly cheered on the Rose High Phantoms, graduating in 1966. After attending Vardell Hall, she married her favorite high school boyfriend, Tim Canning, on June 27, 1970 — a love story that began in youth and blossomed into a lifelong partnership rooted in adoration and shared adventure.

They began their life in Atlanta, where Cindy worked for New York Life, demonstrating early on the intellect and poise that would guide her professional path. Their journey then took them to Southern California, where they welcomed their first daughter, Julie Anne. After several more moves, Annapolis became the place where their family grew with the arrival of Laura Paige. In 1977, the family made their final move to Raleigh, a city that would become the heart of Cindy’s community, friendships, and service.

Soon after arriving, Cindy found her spiritual home at White Memorial Presbyterian Church. Her faith was not simply something she practiced — it was something she lived. She gave generously of her time and compassion through Step Up and Stephen Ministries, eventually serving as a Deacon. She held a special place in her heart for the Wedding Guild, delighting in helping couples begin their own love stories.

Raleigh offered countless opportunities for Cindy to make a meaningful difference. She poured her energy into the Junior League, provided leadership through various PTAs, and worked with Project Enlightenment and Pieces of Gold — always advocating for children and championing their potential. Alongside her service, Cindy applied her keen business acumen as Managing Partner of Gift Maker Systems, LLC, and later as a founding board member of HD Reach.

Family was the foundation of Cindy’s life. She shared an especially close bond with her grandmother, Mable Turnage, her beloved great aunt Alice and cousins and Bess and Jim Long. Her cousin Tricia Calloway was as dear as a sister, and the two created countless joyful memories together. Cindy wholeheartedly embraced the Canning family, creating deep and special relationships with them all and loved gaining brothers and sisters - Tom, John, Joe, Mary and Ann, and the many nieces and nephews and their families. She thought so highly of her son-in-law, Keith Hewitt, Jr., who never failed to make her smile.

Cindy’s passions extended far beyond her roles as daughter, wife and mother. She adored her grandchildren, Paige and Phineas, who brought immeasurable happiness to her. Her affection for all animals and family pets remained constant, evident in the companionship she cherished with her beloved cat, BT.

Greenco, on the Pamlico River, was where her love for water skiing, boating, and sailing first took hold, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. Later in life she found peace walking or basking in the sunshine at Atlantic Beach.

Cindy had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, a trait she learned early on from her mother and as a North Carolina Debutante. She entertained selflessly, creating spaces where everyone felt welcomed, valued, and included. Her warmth made strangers feel like friends and friends feel like family.

Her legacy is one of kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love. Cindy lived a life defined not only by what she accomplished, but by how deeply she cared for others. She leaves behind a beautiful story written in compassion, generosity, and grace — a story that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, April 14th at 2:30pm at Christ Church 120 E Edenton Street Raleigh, NC. Immediately following, a reception will be held at the Raleigh Country Club 400 Donald Ross Drive, Raleigh, NC

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donation be made in her memory to HD Reach 2054 Kildare Farm Rd, #427 Cary, NC 27518, or Transitions Lifecare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.