Cynthia "Cindy" Gates

life story

Harley Momma with a Heart of Gold

A LIMB HAS FALLEN

A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says, Grieve not for me.

Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. The good life I lived while I was strong.

Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.

My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest, remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small.

Go on with your life, don't worry about falls.

I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin until the day comes we're together again.

Memorial for the Late Cynthia Gates:

Cynthia "Cindy" Gates passed away on April 9, 2024, in Burlington, Iowa

Cindy as her friends called her, was of the Christian faith, and had made her peace with God a long time ago. While she was not ready to leave us yet, she believed that she would be welcomed into God's Heavenly Kingdom when her time came.

Cindy was born on June 8, 1943 in Amory, Mississippi and later moved to Memphis, Tenn. where she attended Messick High School in Memphis. She later lived in various states before ultimately ending up in Springfield, Illinois where she would reside for most of her adult life. Then later Bloomington, Illinois after retirement. In her younger adult life she married John J. Altemus, and had a son, James D. Altemus, they later divorced. Later, she married Malcolm Eugene Holmes and had a daughter, Jodie Lynn Holmes (Volpert, Bivens), they later divorced. In 1969 she married again, this time to James Edward Smith. That marriage produced her third child, a son, Jonathon Edward Smith. They also later divorced.

Cindy had a long and fulfilling career with the Illinois Dept. of Public Aid in Sangamon County. Where she worked as a case worker/supervisor for over 35 years where she eventually retired from. While working there she made great memories, had wonderful friendships and deep affection for her job. She took great pride in her work helping families access essential services such as healthcare, childcare and food assistance. She was super proud of the work she did and, was really good at it. While working there, she formed a lifelong bond with a lady named Betty Jo, who became affectionately known to me and my brother Jimmy as Aunt Betty Jo. The two them remained best friends until the end. Up until a couple years before she passed, Cindy would get together with fellow retirees, and current workers from I.D.P.A. to meet at a Cracker Barrel or some other restaurant just to catch up and keep in touch with one another. That really made her day, and gave her something to look forward too. Cindy also moonlighted as a bartender at some of the local bars (Shirley's Place come to mind) in Springfield as well, where she was beloved by her customers.

I think it would be fair to say that Cindy was opinionated and had strong feelings about a number of different topics and had no problems telling you what she thought about something! She probably hurt some feelings from time to time (mine included) but, it was always Momma's prerogative to stick with her beliefs, her principals and do (or say) what she thought was right. My Momma was always involved with causes that promoted the rights of all people. She never discriminated against or hated anyone. Ever! She was special like that :). I think people appreciated her frankness, caring nature, sense of humor and her genuine loving personality, which led to her many enduring friendships.

Cindy was a Breast Cancer Survivor and proud supporter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. She wore her Pink Ribbon proudly.

Cindy had a number of hobbies/interests over the years – some of which were short lived, and some not. Her interests were as vibrant, and diverse as her personality. A few of these were: Latch Hook, Fishing, Knitting, Bowling (which she was really good at), Listening to old soul, country and classic rock music, Watching the NFL, especially her Pittsburg Steelers. Whom she was a fan of since the early 70's., Playing Darts with her good friends Karen and June (Momma was a Il. State Champion at darts a couple of times), Watching movies, Gardening ( She especially loved growing Sunflowers), and Playing games on the computer. Momma absolutely loved growing and nurturing her indoor plants (or anyone else that she deemed in need of nurturing). She loved baking pies and other sweet treats from scratch (She was well known for her cheesecakes). Cooking was definitely a love of hers, being from the south and all. People lovingly spoke of her BBQ Pulled Pork, Southern Potato Salad, Deviled Eggs, Mac & Cheese & Salsa, Egg & Olive and Kool-Aide Pickles to mention a few. Momma was a massive fan of Genealogy. She thought it really important to know about her families history and sunk herself into those discoveries. Most people knew that Momma owned and rode a dressed out 2004 Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide motorcycle (Yellow & Black - Steelers Colors). She loved getting out on her Harley with her friends (especially Kitty & Lynn, who called her Mommy) and club members for some highway road trips, or a Poker Run. Fun fact: She bought the Harley when she was 59 years old, and then learned how to ride a motorcycle. Lol. That was Momma! She also wore a Kaiser helmet.

She loved spending time with her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids when she could. She was so proud of everyone's achievements. Momma was also a pet person. She owned numerus dogs and cats over the years. She would also set out food for the neighborhood strays.

It's important to note that my Momma Cindy suffered from severe depression for a good portion of her life, but still managed to live life to the fullest, despite that. She loved everyone and helped anyone she could, whenever she could. I never knew anyone who did not absolutely love this woman! She was a rose in a world full of thorns. She will be missed.

Those left to remember Cynthia include her children, Jonathon (Sheila) Edward Smith of Burlington, Iowa and Jodie Lynn Bivens of Sheffield, Illinois; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings Judy (Richie Hale) Bruno (Herrin) of California, Corky (Tammy) Hugh Riddle of Prior Lake, Minnesota, and numerous extended family and many, many friends. Cynthia was preceded in death by a son, James Donald Altemus; her parents, Elmer O. Riddle and Beatrice Scott.

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.