Obituaries

Cindy Lee Nelson (née Jennings), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away unexpectedly at home on July 10, 2025.

She was predeceased by her mother, Doreen Jennings (née Blair); father, Leonard Jennings; her brother, Doug Jennings; father-in-law, Barry Nelson; and brother-in-law, Leon Ashton.

Cindy is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Kevin Nelson; her beloved daughters, Aliah (Colin) Elliott and Joelle Nelson; her cherished grandchildren, Remington and Robin; her adored “fur-grandbabies,” Granger and Chase; her siblings, Diane Ashton and Blair (Jeannette) Jennings; mother-in-law, Bernice Nelson; numerous nieces and nephews; and a large circle of family and friends.

Born in Regina, SK, Cindy was the youngest of four siblings. Her childhood was rich with love, laughter, and meaningful experiences. Cindy’s family enjoyed traveling together, taking memorable trips to places like Hawaii, Arizona, and the East Coast, as well as embarking on countless camping adventures - often with their close friends, the Counsells. Whether exploring the Wisconsin Dells, Colorado Springs, Banff, the Black Hills, or Buffalo Pound, these trips were filled with music and joy. It wasn’t uncommon for park wardens to stop by their lively campsite, only to end up staying and joining the singalongs. Cindy attended Thom Collegiate, where she formed a strong, enduring circle of friends - bonds she treasured throughout her life.

Cindy met the love of her life, Kevin, in high school - despite him attending the rival school down the street. After dating for eight years, they married in 1990 and built a strong, joyful partnership that spanned 35 years. Together, they welcomed their daughters, Aliah in March 1993 and Joelle in May 1995. Later, their hearts expanded again with the births of their grandsons, Remington in October 2022 and Robin in April 2025.

Cindy dedicated her career to education, first as an inspiring teacher and later as a respected principal. She convocated from the University of Regina with a Bachelor of Education in 1989, having taken a year off during her studies to travel to Ecuador with Canada World Youth as part of a student exchange. She later earned her Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in 2010. She retired as principal from St. Francis School in June 2019, having led with compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces for students and staff. Over the course of 30 years with both Regina Public Schools and Regina Catholic School Division, Cindy made a lasting impact. Her legacy continues in the countless lives she touched throughout her career.

Cindy found happiness in the simple things: bonfires, camping, family dinners, sunny days, and time spent with those she loved. Known for her warmth and hospitality, Cindy loved hosting friends and family - especially dinner parties that brought people together for good food and laughter. She delighted in singing and found peace in the quiet comfort of her sunroom. She loved the heat of summer, which drew her to places like Mexico and Arizona, and she often brought home vibrant music and décor inspired by their cultures. Travel brought her joy, especially camping trips and family vacations. A highlight was a seven-week road trip across the western United States, with unforgettable stops at the Grand Canyon, Disneyland, the Oregon Coast, and many places in between. These holidays became treasured memories and a reflection of her adventurous spirit.

She was a deeply loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Resurrection Parish, 3155 Windsor Park Road, Regina, SK. All who knew Cindy are warmly invited to gather, remember, and celebrate her life. A livestream of the service will be available at https://youtube.com/live/X5ysokowfNc?feature=share.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.

Though our hearts are heavy, we carry her light forward - in the laughter of her grandchildren, the strength of her daughters, the quiet generosity of her beloved husband, and the warmth of her Land of Nod cinnamon buns on Christmas morning.

She is now in the eternal embrace of our Lord, joyfully reunited with her beloved parents and brother in Heaven, and held in the promise of everlasting peace.