TURNER – Cynthia Jane (Roberts) Paradis, 66, died peacefully at home in Turner on Aug. 22, 2025. Born on June 30, 1959, in Boston, Mass., Cyndy was known for her strength and bravery in the face of cancer, but more importantly, she will always be remembered for her kind and generous spirit.
Cyndy grew up on a large dairy farm in Gilbertville, Mass., the middle daughter of Virginia Armstrong and the late Donald Roberts. It was here she developed a love for cooking and baking, especially with items grown in her garden, which she especially enjoyed sharing with those around her. She could often be found kayaking or hiking, or reading a treasured book, more often than not for one of her many book clubs, generally seen to be an excuse for gathering old and new friends, as well as an opportunity to scheme future travel plans. Travel, with family and friends, will sustain a lasting memory in those she inspired to travel, particularly through the chronicles of the acclaimed “Adventures with Grammie and Pepere” books.
After graduating from Quabbin Regional High School in 1977, Cyndy eventually wound up in Central Maine and never left. She graduated from the University of Maine at Farmington in 1981 and worked for 38 years as a dedicated Special Education Teacher, including extended time at Readfield Elementary School and Spruce Mountain High School. In addition to the classroom, she spent countless years as a Special Olympics and Central Maine Adaptive Sports coach. Cyndy could always be found humbly and quietly making a profound and positive impact on the lives of so many students.
In Maine, Cyndy met her devoted husband, Richard, of nearly 44 years. Together, they share a daughter, Meghan Rodier (Paradis), and a son, Trent Paradis. The family expanded to include a son-in-law, Michael Rodier, and two adored grandchildren, Timothy and Elise Rodier, all residents of Oxford, Mass. Trips back home to central Massachusetts included cherished visits with Virginia Rich and Donald Rich, (deceased); Paula Roberts and Donald Roberts, (deceased); as well as her nieces, Sarah and Katie Roberts.
Family was an integral part of Cyndy’s life, and she was incredibly appreciative of the unwavering support of those family members who stepped forward to assist during her most recent health challenges. She was particularly grateful for the support provided by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Carey and Loraine Paradis, Diane and Randy Berry, Darian and Tammy Paradis, as well as the generosity of their children, Samantha, Christopher, Jonathan, Brittany, and Jacob Paradis, and Jared and Nicolas Berry. Additionally, the family wishes to express immense gratitude to Laura’s Wish Foundation, which facilitated the opportunity for all family members to spend time together at Acadia National Park.
An expression of heartfelt thanks is also directed to Michelle Roy, the Navigator’s and HUD house staff, and Aaron Demillo for the comfort they have provided Trent.
The family would like to convey immeasurable appreciation toward the wonderful care providers at the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, Maine General Palliative Care, and Andwell Hospice Home Care.
Messages of condolence may be sent to: http://www.finleyfuneralhome.com
All are welcome to a celebration of life which will be held 1 p.m., Oct. 11 at the Paradis’ home, at 39 Nezinscot Dr., in Turner. Arrangements are being handled by Finley Funeral Home, 15 Church St., in Livermore Falls.
If desired, donations should be directed to the
Navigator’s Program
1512 Minot Ave.
Auburn, ME 04212
which will be used to coordinate a Special Olympics project of the Navigator’s choice. You may also choose to direct donations to the
Dempsey Center
P.O. Box 277
Auburn, ME, 04212
so that they can continue to provide free access to resources for those impacted by cancer.
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