Cynthia Ann Pena

Cynthia S. Peña, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, tía, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Cynthia was born on November 19, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas. From an early age, she demonstrated a remarkable spirit and determination that would define her life. She graduated from Incarnate Word High School in 1970 and cherished the lifelong friendships she built there. She pursued higher education at Our Lady of the Lake University and the University of Texas at Austin.

In 1972, Cynthia married her high school sweetheart, Amando Peña, on June 24. Together, they built a loving family and led a life filled with beautiful memories. Cynthia was a devoted mother to their three children, Barbara, Brian, and Brittney, and a doting grandmother to nine grandchildren, whom she loved tremendously. Amando preceded her in death in 2020.

Cynthia embarked on a trailblazing career in the 1970s, at a time when such paths were less common for women. She began working as a 10-key clerk at the JCPenney data processing center, where her dedication and perseverance quickly led to a promotion within the HR department. Cynthia excelled as an HR Generalist and passed her certification on the first try. Throughout her career, she eagerly mentored colleagues and staff at JCPenney, Alliance Data, and finally at Sterling Foods, before she retired on February 1, 2018.

Cynthia found joy in life's simple pleasures, such as enjoying an iced tea and a slice of apple pie from Bill Miller's. She loved watching crime shows, especially NCIS marathons. A passionate reader, she adored the works of Isabel Allende. Cynthia was an exceptional seamstress, crafting handmade Halloween costumes, prom dresses, and other unique creations.

Cynthia's legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. She is survived by her mother, Rachel R. Solis; daughters, Barbara Peña Solis and Brittney Uriegas (José Uriegas); son, Brian Peña (Camille Peña); brother, Edmund Solis (Lisa); sister, Betty S. Abraham; brothers-in-law, Michael Peña (Martha) and William Peña (Yolanda); and her grandchildren, Gabrielle, Austin, Elise, Paige, Tyler, Claire, Sophia, Oliva, and Jason Wallace, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, beloved cousins and relatives, and her dearest lifelong friends from the Incarnate Word and Holy Cross communities.

Celebration of LifeWednesday, October 23, 202411:00 a.m.Our Lady of Perpetual Help16075 N Evans Rd.Selma, TX 78154

Graveside ServiceWednesday, October 23, 20241:00 p.m.Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd.San Antonio, TX 78209