Cynthia Payette

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Sindy Payette who left us peacefully on January 13, 2025 at the age of 60. She was a unique spirt: loving, independent, full of life. She was born in San Antonio on February 3, 1964, the third daughter of Wallace Payette, Jr. and Ann Payette.

As a child and young teen, Sindy enjoyed spending time with her family at the LBJ lake house. The time was spent fishing for bass off the dock but mostly catching perch. Taking the paddle boat out of the cove and into the lake and launching herself into the water from the pontoons was fantastic fun. There were also mornings spent tubing and skiing, as well as hours relaxing at the low water crossing. The highlight of the summer was watching the Fourth of July fireworks from the boat and shouting “Happy Birthday, America!”

She graduated from Churchill High School in 1982. She later attended St. Phillips College taking courses in the hospitality field. She devoted many years managing Acadiana Café and worked for Sea Island as a hostess. She loved people!

Sindy met Billy Mata and they married in 1988. They had two daughters, Emily and Shannon. She later married Rick Yawn. Their son R.J. was soon born.

A passionate rock fan, Sindy’s heart beat to the rhythm of her favorite bands and she found solace in the power of music. From classic rock to country to more contemporary sounds, her love for music was a constant bringing her both comfort and excitement.

She had a deep affection for animals, particularly her cats and chickens who were always by her side. Whether tending to her flock or curling up with her beloved cats, Sindy found comfort in their companionship and they brought her immense joy. Her menagerie also included parakeets, a guinea pig, a frog, and other small creatures. She loved them all.

Another interest of Sindy’s was rock painting. Rocks were adorned with cute pictures and hidden in surprising places. This was done solely to brighten someone’s day should they unexpectedly find one.

In 2015, Sindy was diagnosed as having cancer. Over these past years, she fought bravely. Unfortunately, that horrible disease took her from us in the end. The family wishes to thank the hospice nurses who provided guidance through these final days. A special thanks to Bianca, who with her training as a CNA was an invaluable help and support. RJ and David stayed by her side tirelessly to make her final days as comfortable as possible.

She is survived by her mother, Ann Payette, her children Emily, Shannon, and RJ, her sisters Becky and Laurie, and her boyfriend David. She was preceded in death by her father, Wally Payette. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome with a kindness that extended to both family and friends. Her warmth, humor, and free-spirited nature will be missed by all who knew her.