Obituary of Cynthia A. Watkins

Cynthia A. Watkins, 61, of Peabody, passed away June 3, at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, from complications related to COVID-19. She was the beloved wife of Kevin D. Watkins. Cindy was born in Peabody, on October 4, 1958, daughter of the late George and Leona (Bedard) McAuley. She was raised and educated in Peabody. After bringing up her children, she followed her passion and earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Lesley University. Currently, Cindy was working as a Special Education Teacher at the Shore Educational Collaborative in Chelsea, MA, a job in which she took immense pride. She also enjoyed taking trips with her husband to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and Ireland, but most importantly, spending time and making memories with her family. Cindy was known for always having a smile on her face and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. As a devoted and loving mother, she was very proud of her family and excited to become a “mémère” to her 3 grandchildren. Grandmothers and grandchildren have special relationships and Cindy really put a lot of time and affection into hers. She loved them fiercely and helped create some of their most cherished memories. Whether it was seeing a show at the North Shore Music Theater or roasting s’mores over a fire at Acres of Wildlife, Cindy always found ways to make them feel excited, loved, and safe. They will always be her “little sacks of sugar”. Besides her loving husband, she is survived by her children, Glenn S. Watkins and his wife Deirdre of Northborough, Jeremy D. Watkins of Bedford; her grandchildren, Evelynne, Nora, and Max; her siblings, John McAuley, Gloria Gordon, John McAuley, Christine Dudley, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, George McAuley. A private service will be held at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Peabody, with a memorial to follow in the future when it is safe to do so. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to: Shore Collaborative Foundation, Attn: Jacki Clark, 201 Crescent Ave, Chelsea, MA 02150