Cynthia "Cyndi" Wanda Rice-Shepherd

Cynthia "Cyndi" W. Rice-Shepherd, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2024, at Decatur County Hospital in Leon, Iowa. She was 68 years old. Born on April 6, 1956, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Virgil and Ruth (née Porter) Rice, Cyndi grew up in Norwoodville where she attended Norwoodville Elementary and Saydel High School, before later moving to Des Moines, and attending East High School. Early on she discovered a love for dancing and her natural talent led her to participate in a dance competition in California, which left a lasting impression that she carried with her throughout her life.

Cyndi married the love of her life, Richard Shepherd, and together they made their home in Grand River, Iowa. Her life was filled with adventure as she lived in various places, including California, Texas, and Iowa, where Cyndi's passion for travel and the outdoors flourished.

A dedicated grandmother, Cyndi cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, attending many of their activities and celebrating their achievements. Family was paramount to Cyndi; she worked tirelessly to maintain strong relationships with her many siblings and abundant nieces and nephews.

Cyndi's vibrant spirit and love for the outdoors meant she could often be found enjoying nature through various outdoor activities. Her legacy of love, dedication to family, and zest for life will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Cyndi is survived by her husband, Richard Shepherd; daughter, Heather (Lewis) Small; grandchildren, Lewis "Tommy" Small II, Timothy Small, Tanner Small, Trenton Small, and Payten Small; siblings, David, Virginia, Betty, Terry Jane, Ruth Ann, and Becky Sue; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers, Johnny, Virgil, Billy, and Rick.