Cynthia Gross

In Loving Memory of Cynthia Sherry Gross

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Cynthia “Cindy” Sherry Gross passed away peacefully at the age of 79.

Born on December 1, 1945, in Auburn, California, to Bing and May Jew, Cindy was the heart and soul of every community she touched. Raised in Daly City, she graduated from Jefferson High School and later attended San Francisco State University.

Cindy was, first and foremost, a devoted mother to her daughters, Mindi and Michelle. Her love for them was boundless, and she showed up for every moment—on the sidelines of softball and volleyball games, in the classroom, and throughout every milestone of their lives. Whether she was keeping score, managing the team, or simply cheering from the stands, Cindy never missed a chance to be present for the people she loved.

Her legacy of care extended far beyond her family. Cindy dedicated her life to education and service, working in just two schools over the course of a remarkable 44-year career. She began as a teacher’s aide at Park School in San Mateo, then moved on to become the beloved administrative assistant at South Hillsborough School, where she remained until her retirement in June 2020.

At South School, Cindy wasn’t just part of the staff—she was its heart. Generations of students, families, and faculty knew her as the quiet force who held everything (and everyone) together. She worked with four superintendents, eight principals, and countless teachers—many of whom became treasured friends. Former students returned as parents, teachers, and leaders in the community, often greeting her with a hug and a story about how she had once made them feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Cindy’s legacy isn’t just in years served or roles held—it’s in how she showed up. She was compassionate, loyal, and endlessly generous. She put others before herself with grace and without hesitation. Her integrity was steady and true, and her warmth made everyone feel at home.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Mindi (Mike) Ellis and Michelle (Michael) Murray; her adoring grandchildren, Madison Brown, Abigail and Eryn Ellis, and Mayson and Michael Leo Murray; and her dear brother, Dennis Jew.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Folau Lepa for the extraordinary care, love, and support she provided Cindy over the past three years.

A funeral service will be held at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:00am. Visitation will begin at 10:00am. Celebration of Life will be held immediately after the funeral, details to follow soon. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Cindy’s honor to Arbor Bay School: www.arborbayschool.org