Cynthia "Cindy" Payne Mills, 71, of Newberry died Monday, August 26, 2024 at her home.

Born November 8, 1952 in Newberry, SC, she was the daughter of the late Edna McCarty Payne Garnett and the late Jerold Clifford "J.C." Payne.

Cindy was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer and volunteered for many years as a nursery attendant and Vacation Bible School teacher. She worked for over 30 years in the Newberry County School District and retired as Power School Coordinator. Cindy was a strong advocate for education and was truly grateful for her colleagues and friends in the school district.

She was a feisty fighter and despite her cancer diagnosis, Cindy kept a positive outlook refusing to give in to self-pity. She was willing to face facts and have tough conversations, even if she disagreed, she sought to listen first. Her winning smile was a trademark and she carried it with her always.

Cindy had a huge heart and would help anyone she could. She cared for others and her family, especially her boys and Roy. Whether it was church plays or sporting events, Cindy was always there to cheer on Hu and Clif. And when she became "Grammy," she cheered just as hard for Noah and Mason.

Her pride and joy was her family, she loved her sons and grandsons mightily and her love was returned. She will be missed.

Cindy is survived by her sons, Hu Mills (Rachel) of Prosperity and Clif Mills of Newberry; grandsons, Noah and Mason Mills of Newberry; brother, Jim Payne (Angie) of Rock Hill; sisters, Jeanne Blackburn (Jack) of Newberry, and Lynn Siddle (Terry) of Irmo; sister-in-law, Dottie Wilson (David) of Newberry; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, she was predeceased by her husband of over 50 years, Hubert Roy Mills, Jr; step-father, Homer Garnett.

Services for Cindy will be conducted by the Rev. Matt Titus at 2:00 PM Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. The family will greet friends following the service at the church Family Life Center.

The family expresses their sincere appreciation for the loving care and support from Katrina and the Newberry County Memorial Hospital – Oncology Department, Lea Thompson, Erin Willis, Chaplain Louellen Benton, and all the team at Prisma Hospice.

The family suggests memorials be made to the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 1515 Boundary St., Newberry, SC 29108; or to the Oliver Gospel Mission, 1100 Taylor St., Columbia, SC 29201 or online at www.olivergospel.org.

Memories and messages may be shared with the family here on her tribute page at www.whitakerfuneralhome.com.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Mills family.