Cindy Lynn Ackelson

Well, everyone… she did it: she woke up dead. The world’s paperboys can finally breathe easy.

Born on October 29, 1961, in Lancaster, California, Cindy spent her early years basking in sunshine, until her family realized that perfect weather came with a price tag they couldn’t afford. Her mother and four siblings relocated to Springfield, Illinois, where the skies were moodier, but the cost of living was slightly more reasonable.

Cindy’s teenage years were marked by a healthy disregard for rules and a talent for finding fun in all the wrong places. By adulthood, she was a certified party legend. But, beneath the wild stories and loud laughter, was a woman whose love for her children and family never wavered.

She spent much of her career in the food service, where her knack for hospitality and love of feeding people truly shined. Most recently, she worked at Panera Bread for over a decade, serving not just soup and sandwiches, but also good humor and an infectious energy that made her a favorite among coworkers and customers alike.

Cindy’s life was rich with passions; some loud and lively, like her love of music, and others simple and comforting, like her fondness for a good hamburger. She traveled often, was an avid collector of earrings, never met a flower she didn’t adore, and was endlessly curious about the mysteries of the world — including her firm belief that Billy Ocean personally dug the oceans so mermaids could be sold in fish stores. But above all, she loved to laugh, and her laughter was a gift she shared generously with everyone.

If you knew Cindy, you’ve probably got a hilarious story that still brings a smile to your face. She was a bona fide hoot, unapologetically herself, and proof that even in life’s stressful moments, joy is never out of reach. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and the kind of presence that’s impossible to forget.

She is survived by her children, Nena Lynn (Tim) Simmons of Chatham, Illinois, Sabrina Kay (Brandon “Big Hands” Wilbert) Ackelson of Auburn, and Brandon Tyler Roberts of Fresno, California; brother-in-law, Gary Butchek; sister, Georgia (Bruce) Webster of Mesa, Arizona; brother, John (Terri) Ackelson of Springfield; grandchildren, Lucas Simmons of Chatham, Makiyah Wilbert of Auburn, Layla Natale of Springfield, and Cooper Simmons of Chatham; and several nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Ackelson and Shirley (Burris) Ackelson; sisters, Debbie Butchek and Tina Knight; brother-in-law, Robert Knight; and many other deeply cherished loved ones.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.