Cynthia “Cindy” Denby
Fowlerville Michigan
Cynthia “Cindy” Denby, a devoted wife and mother, beloved grandmother, cherished sister and aunt, and dedicated community leader, passed away on August 18, 2026, at the age of 70.
Cindy was born on December 11, 1955 in Howell, MI. She lived a life defined by love, service, strength, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to her family and the community she called home. At the heart of Cindy’s life was her family, and at her side for 50 years was the love of her life, Wayne “Fred” Denby. They were married on the first day of spring, March 20, 1976. They built a beautiful life together with their two children, Angela and Brandon.
Family was the center of her world and her greatest source of pride and joy. She was a constant source of love, encouragement, wisdom, and strength. She was always showing up when she was needed and putting the people she loved ahead of herself. Cindy hosted countless family events with the level of detail of an event planner. She had a passion for many crafts, especially knitting and quilting. She gifted handmade blankets at almost every baby shower she attended. She loved her flower gardens and spent time tending to them every year. Cindy enjoyed card games with family, celebrated every holiday, and she was always in the mood to watch a game show.
Cindy had a lifelong goal of becoming a Grandmother to create a special connection like the one she experienced as a child with her Grandmother. She found great joy with her five grandchildren, attending football games, dance recitals, music performances, award presentations, teaching them to knit, playing cards, reading stories, finding that perfect gift. She was an amazing gift-giver, so thoughtful. Every moment was precious to her, and she always showed up for them. Public service was an important part of Cindy’s life, and for decades she dedicated herself to serving her community and the people of Livingston County. Cindy began her years of elected public service close to home in Fowlerville, Michigan, serving eight years as Handy Township Clerk and eight years as Handy Township Supervisor. She also spent 20 years working in the legislative office, including time as a legislative aide for elected officials and causes she deeply believed in. Cindy was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, serving as a Michigan State Representative from 2009 through 2014. She had a reputation with constituents for answering the call and following through with the solution.
Cindy believed deeply in the people she represented and in the responsibility that came with being entrusted to serve them. She always wanted to do things the right way. Cindy fought for what she believed in with kindness and positivity, but she was a fierce competitor. If there was a day left in a campaign, there was time to visit a few more doors. She was always aware that every vote counted.
Cindy leaves behind her loving husband, Wayne “Fred” Denby; her children, Brandon Denby (Shelby) and Angela Belanger (Dan); her brother, Jim Keesler (Patti); and her treasured grandchildren, Adrienne Denby, Colton Denby, Ariella Denby, Adeline Denby, and Alison Belanger.
She also leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews, Mitch Keesler (Kristina), Deanne Wizner (Ryan), Bill Rivera, and Nick Kassouf (Amber), as well as nine great-nieces and great-nephews who were part of the family she held so dear.
Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, Charles D. Keesler, Barbara J. Keesler, and sister, Jenny Keesler.
After 50 years of marriage and decades of public service, Cindy leaves behind a legacy far greater than the offices she held or the accomplishments she achieved. Her life is measured by the family she loved, the people she touched, and the difference she made in the lives of others.
She will be profoundly missed and forever loved.
Her Farewell… Cindy’s family and friends will gather 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Monday, August 24, 2026 at Borek Jennings Funeral Home in Fowlerville, Michigan. Gathering will continue on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Livingston Centre Historical Village. Please leave a message of comfort for Cindy’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.
