Cynthia Wands Gracey
 

Cambridge - Cynthia Birdella Wands Gracey, 81, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Monday, August 11, 2025, at her beloved home. Born on August 1, 1944, in Cambridge, New York, Cynthia was the daughter of the late Courtney and Goldie (Jolly) Wands. She was raised in a family that valued both creativity and deep-rooted community ties—qualities she carried with her throughout her life. A graduate of Cambridge Central School, Cynthia went on to earn a Bachelors Degree from the University of Massachusetts and a Masters Degree from Wesleyan University, Conn. Her professional life reflected her love for the arts and communication. She served as Director at the Center for the Arts at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, where her leadership and vision left a lasting impact. Cynthia also worked as a freelance writer of scripts, speeches, and media content for a diverse range of clients, celebrities, and production companies in New York City and Washington, D.C. Cynthia's interests were rich and varied. She had a lifelong passion for theatre and was a supporter of L’Ensemble. She was a devoted animal lover, especially fond of her cats, and she treasured her family’s history. Above all, she loved her home, Bonnie Brae Farm—a place of deep comfort and inspiration to her. Cynthia grew up in the Whiteside Church and remained connected to her spiritual roots throughout her life. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, George Gracey, whom she married on February 17, 1980; her son by marriage, Christopher Gracey of Washington, D.C., and his wife, Theresa Brown; her granddaughter, London Charlotte Bee Gracey; and her brothers, Bruce Wands of Independence, MO, and Scott Wands of Anacortes, WA. She also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart. In addition to her parents, Cynthia was predeceased by her sister, Lois Tasmin “Tammy” Pedersen of Stella, NC, and her brother, Richard Wands of Spokane, WA. A celebration of Cynthia’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Whiteside Church, 331 Center Cambridge Road, Cambridge, NY where friends and family are invited to share memories and honor a life well lived. A reception will follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Cynthia’s memory may be made to Whiteside Church, 331 Center Cambridge Road, Cambridge, NY 12816. Cynthia will be remembered for her creative spirit, her devotion to family and community, and the warmth she brought to every room. Her legacy lives on in those she inspired and in the place she called home. To express your sympathy or share a memory of Cynthia, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ackley, Ross & Gariepy Funeral Home, Cambridge

Class of 1962
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