Cynthia Sue Juda (nee. West, Ross), lovingly known as Cindy, passed away on January 5, 2026, following a massive stroke. She was 78 years old.
Cindy was born on December 2, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to Rosalie and John West. She was raised in the Catholic faith and grew up in a large family that shaped her strong sense of loyalty, tradition, and love for simple joys.
A proud Chicagoan at heart, Cindy was a devoted fan of Chicago sports, especially the Chicago Bears and the Chicago White Sox. Though she spent the last 20 years of her life in Evansville, Indiana, her love for Chicago never faded. During those years, she shared her life with her lifelong best friend, Rose West, whose companionship meant the world to her.
Cindy was an avid reader throughout her life and found great joy in books, movies, and dining out. Her favorite movie was Blazing Saddles, which perfectly matched her sense of humor. Music was another lifelong passion—she especially loved oldies rock and roll, with Sha Na Na as her favorite band. Her favorite song of all time was Unchained Melody.
She cherished memories of going to dances with her younger cousin, the late Judy Downs. Those nights held special meaning, as both women met their future husbands at dance halls in Chicago. Cindy also loved fishing for smelt at Starved Rock, bargain hunting, and savoring her favorite comforts like biscuits and gravy, Cheetos, and chocolate.
Cindy had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and her affection for them was evident to everyone who knew her.
Though her life had its quiet chapters, Cindy will be remembered for her humor, her passions, and the simple pleasures that brought her happiness.
Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, Rosalie and John West; her older brothers, Robert (Rose) West and Edward West; her older sister, Donna West; and her son, Johnathan Ross.
She is survived by her sisters Sharon (the late Dennis) Balazs and Patricia (Brian) O’Rourke; her daughter, Shari (Drew) Dickerson; her granddaughter, Leann (Nick) McDonough; and her grandson, Andy Dickerson. She was also loved by many cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles throughout her life.
A Memorial Mass for Cindy West will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 4:00 at St Patricia Church in Hickory Hills, IL.
