Cynthia Ann Mittelstedt

Cynthia Ann Mittelstedt, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025. Born on January 29, 1956, in Portland, Oregon, to Russell and Jean Backus, Cindy was one of four siblings. Her childhood was filled with frequent moves as the daughter of a missionary and later, a pastor—experiences that helped shape her lifelong calling to serve others with compassion and grace.

Cindy met the love of her life, Ron Mittelstedt, at the Tacoma Servicemen’s Center, which was operated by her father. What began as a friendship soon blossomed into a deep and enduring love. They were married on May 8, 1976, in Tacoma, Washington, beginning a beautiful 49-year journey of marriage and ministry. Their shared path took them across several states, always seeking to follow where they felt the Lord was leading, before finally making their home in Weatherford, Texas. Along the way, they were blessed with two daughters and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Cindy was known for her warm hugs, welcoming spirit, and generous heart. Her home was always open— a refuge for anyone in need of rest, encouragement, or simply a hot meal. Many entered her door as strangers and left as family, touched forever by her kindness and sincerity. She carried on her parents’ legacy of hospitality, and her table was often filled with food, laughter, and stories shared over coffee.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life. Cindy lived out her beliefs daily, whether by offering a listening ear on her front porch, preparing a meal for someone in need, or mentoring young people who found both comfort and direction under her care. She was a spiritual mother to many, especially to the youth who gravitated toward her guidance, wisdom, and unwavering love.

A true partner to Ron in every endeavor, Cindy met challenges with resilience and grace. Whether helping run insurance and construction businesses or supporting the family winery, she adapted, learned, and led with strength and quiet determination. She was the embodiment of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31—wise, generous, and deeply rooted in faith and love.

Even in her final days, Cindy’s thoughts remained on her family. Her love, courage, and strength gave her family precious extra time, during which she continued to smile, laugh, and show the love that defined her life.

Cindy leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith. She is survived by her beloved husband, Ron Mittelstedt; her daughters, Elease Hill and Elizabeth Arwood; adopted daughters, Cindy Wigington and Amber LeMay Loyd, her son-in-law, Dustin Arwood, Roy Wigington and Andrew Loyd; and her cherished grandchildren, Ashley and Madison Hill; Silas Arwood; Nathaniel LeMay and Samuel Loyd; Benjamin, Jacob, Emma, and Meredith Wigington. She is also survived by her brothers, Michael Backus and John Backus; her sister, Letha Grapenthin; and her treasured nieces and nephews. Beyond her immediate family, she leaves a host of others whom she loved like her own, who were welcomed into her heart and home over the years.

Cindy will be remembered for her generous heart, her enduring faith, and the many lives she touched. She awaits those she leaves behind with a radiant smile and one of her signature hugs.

Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Friday, June 13 at Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Woodland Park Cemetery.