Mrs. Cindy Sanders Smith, aged 61, peacefully passed away on
Monday, July 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.
Cindy was born on August 1, 1962, in Shreveport, Louisiana, as the second child of Perry Sanders and Bobbie (Langheld) Herford. Growing up in Minden, Cindy was known for her infectious cheerfulness and a radiant smile that could light up any room. Her warmth and kindness drew people to her, and she maintained lifelong friendships that felt like family.
In 1985, Cindy married her soulmate, Ken Smith. Their love story was one of adventure and joy, often found riding their motorcycles together on the backroads of the towns they called home or working on a DIY house project together. Their first home was a property on Lake Bistineau in Sibley, Louisiana, where Cindy meticulously decorated their one-acre property inside and out. In 1994, they moved to Texarkana, TX, forging lasting friendships and enjoying weekend rides on their Harley Davidsons. Next, their journey took them to Anniston, AL for 14 years and in 2016 they moved back home to Minden to care for their parents.
Together, Cindy and Ken raised their only child, Tiffany (Smith) Costello. Cindy’s devotion to motherhood knew no bounds, always going the extra mile for her daughter. She was thrilled to have her first grandchild on the way, expected January 2025. Cindy was dreaming of being called CiCi and was so excited to “spoil the grandchild rotten” just as her parents had done for Tiffany. Her grandchild will have a guardian angel named CiCi looking after her.
Cindy’s capacity for love extended beyond her family. She had an extraordinary gift for making friends and forming deep connections everywhere she went. Her lifelong best friend, Pam Wise, stood by her side during her final weeks, sharing a lifetime of memories and laughter. Cindy was deeply grateful for the many friendships that enriched her life.
Known for her kindness, Cindy touched the lives of everyone she met. Even in her final days, Cindy’s kindness shone through. She never failed to thank the nurses and doctors who cared for her and often made them laugh with her enduring sense of humor, even amidst her pain. Cindy’s spirit left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Cindy is survived by her loving husband, Ken Smith; her daughter, Tiffany (Smith) Costello; her daughter-in-law, Shelby Costello; her niece, Ashley Sanders; her mother-in-law, Bobbye Smith; her step-father, Jim Herford; and her uncle and aunt, Bert and Sandy Chanler, along with many cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Bobbie (Langheld) Herford; her father, Perry Sanders; her step-mother, Ruby Sanders; her father-in-law, Kenneth Smith Sr; and brother, Steve Sanders.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Hills Country Club located at 688 Pine Hills Dr, Minden, LA 71055 on August 10, 2024 at 3 PM. The service will be an opportunity for family and friends to share their favorite stories about Cindy, celebrating her vibrant life with smiles and laughter, just as she would have wanted. Cindy’s legacy of love, kindness and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.