Cynthia Alma Pena

Pacific Grove ~ Cynthia Alma Peña, 56, passed away in Burlingame, CA on June 6, 2014 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lisandro and Agapita Peña, and her beloved boyfriend, Tommy Stillwell.

Cynthia was born in McAllen, Texas on June 10, 1957. She worked as a Special Education Teacher at Bardin Elementary School in the Alisal Elementary School District in Salinas, CA and was a former member of the California Teachers Association (CTA) Board of Directors.

Cynthia was a longtime resident of Pacific Grove, having moved there in 1964 with her family. She is survived by her siblings, Velma (Mike) Cummins of San Carlos, CA, Lisandro (Michele) Peña Jr. of Phoenix, AZ, Fernando (Kari) Peña of San Carlos, CA, and James (Lisa Rene) Peña of Santa Monica, CA. She is also survived by her aunts and uncles, Fernando and Lillian Villanueva of Coarsegold, CA, George and Carlotta Villarreal of Pacific Grove, and Gavino and Melva Villanueva of McAllen, TX. She also leaves behind ten special nephews and nieces and many loving cousins.

Cynthia attended David Avenue Elementary School, Pacific Grove Junior High and Pacific Grove High School. She graduated from the California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo, where she received her Bachelor of Arts, teachers credential, and Master of Arts, all in Education.

Cynthia worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children and teachers in California through her many years of service at Bardin Elementary School, Alisal Teachers Association, the National Education Association (NEA), and as an elected member of the CTA Board of Directors.

Cynthia was a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and Tia (aunt). She was happiest when she was surrounded by her family, especially her nephews and nieces. She loved attending sporting events, shopping, and traveled widely, visiting Europe, South America and numerous American states. All who were blessed to know her were touched by her amazing grace, courage, caring attitude, strength, dignity, intelligence, generosity, and Catholic faith.

College scholarships are being established in Cynthia’s name for local students who want to become teachers. Please send memorial donations to the Alisal Teachers Association, c/o John Aaron, 246 Massolo Court, Salinas, 93907 or to the Pacific Grove High School Alumni Association, PO Box 51396, Pacific Grove, 93950.

Visitation will take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 12, from 4:00 PM until the Vigil which begins at 7:00 PM, both at The Paul Mortuary Chapel, 390 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church in Pacific Grove on Friday, June 13 followed by burial at El Carmelo Cemetery, also in Pacific Grove. To sign Cynthia’s guest book and leave messages for her family, please visit www.thepaulmortuary.com.