Cynthia "Cindy" Cestare

Cynthia “Cindy” Cestare of Gilboa NY, passed away on January 9, 2026 in Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown NY after a long battle with bladder cancer.

Born on December 27, 1957, in Brooklyn NY, she was the daughter of Jack and Madeline (Crowley) Reid.

On February 2, 1983, Cindy married Anthony “Tony” Cestare. She met the love of her life in the most unexpected way - during a simple car ride that became the start of a lifelong journey. While driving for a car service, Tony picked her up along with her nieces for many nights out at the Rock Palace Club. What began as a chance meeting quickly grew into a deep and enduring love. From those early rides forward their lives were intertwined, built on devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership. She was a loving wife whose heart, kindness, and steadfast love defined her marriage and touched all who knew her.

Together, they eventually moved upstate to the small town of Gilboa, NY, where they built a quiet, meaningful life rooted in family and community. It was there that they raised their two children, Brian and Jackie, creating a home filled with love, hard work, and cherished traditions. Gilboa became more than a place to live - it became the foundation of their family. Her days were devoted to her children - their activities, milestones, and dreams - while she also gave generously of herself to the Gilboa community that became an extension of her family.

Cindy worked for 26 years as an LTA (Licensed Teachers Assistant) at Gilboa-Conesville Central School. During her time at Gilboa she dedicated her professional life to supporting students and teachers with patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Cindy worked closely with countless children over more than two decades, helping them grow academically and personally. Her calm presence, encouragement, and belief in every student left a lasting impact on the school community. Colleagues remember Cindy as a dependable and caring professional who always put students first.

Outside the classroom, Cindy cherished time in nature and found great joy and peace in the outdoors, especially while camping with family and friends at Nickerson Park Campground. She took special pride in her flower garden, thoughtfully planting blooms that welcomed hummingbirds she loved to watch. Much of Cindy’s life was devoted to making memories with her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends who became family. Known lovingly to many as “Mama Dukes”, she had a nurturing spirit that made everyone feel cared for and at home.

Besides her parents Cindy is predeceased by her sister Carol Scheider.

She is survived by her husband, Tony of Gilboa; children: Brian (Jen) Cestare of Goshen, and Jackie (Dan McGlynn) of Jefferson; stepchildren: Barbara (Tarl) Spitzer of Colorado, and John Michael Cestare of Florida; sisters: JoAnn Polimeni of Georgia, Sue (Richie) Colletti of New Jersey; brother: John (Lilly) Lynch of Alabama; and many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Cindy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her compassion, strength, courage, and positivity.

Friends and family are invited to call from 11AM-1PM and 4PM-6PM on Monday, January 19, 2026 at MacArthur Funeral Home, 15 Buntline Drive Stamford NY 12167.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering, Marathon For A Better Life, or Bassett Medical Center Cooperstown NY.