Cynthia Lydford passed away peacefully at home on February 12, 2026 at the age of 93. She was born on September 18, 1932 in Prince Edward Island, Canada to the late Robert J. Lydford and Roma L. (Wright) Lydford.

Cynthia graduated from NYU with a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing. She was a Registered Nurse and later became Chief Nurse for many years at Castle Point VA Medical Center, a career which she was very passionate about. She was a founding member of Nurses House, a non-profit organization that helps nurses in need during times of hardship. She was also a member of the Professional Nurses Association. Cynthia became a published author at the age of 90, writing a book of poems called "A Nurse's Light."

Caring for others was certainly a calling for Cynthia even as she went into retirement, taking care of her neighbors and friends. She loved animals and being out in nature. She also loved to travel, taking trips to Europe, Alaska, and a memorable cross country road trip across the United States and Canada with her mother in the 90's.

Cynthia is survived by her cousin Joan Moffett, her beloved nieces and nephews: George Lydford and his wife Mary, Wini Lydford-Kulesa and her husband Tony Kulesa, Patricia Witchley, and Robert Lydford and his wife Sonya; as well as many great nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her partner Jack Flynn, her brother Robert G. Lydford, her sister-in-law Wini Lydford, and her niece Eileen Lydford.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday March 11, 2026 from 3 - 6 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, 1089 Main St. Fishkill, NY. A Funeral Service will begin at 5:30 pm. Burial will take place on Thursday March 12, 2026 at 11:30 am Washington Memorial Park in Mt. Sinai, NY.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, caregivers and staff at JanCare , whose compassion, patience, and gentle care brought comfort and dignity during the past three years. We also appreciate the incredible team with Hudson Valley Hospice who provided comfort and care for Cynthia and the family during the final months.

Please consider a donation in Cynthia's memory to Hudson Valley Hospice www.hvhospice.org , or Dutchess County SPCA www.dcspca.org in lieu of flowers .