Cynthia “Cindy” Diane Laird, 68, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at her residence. Cindy was born on August 12, 1957, in Zanesville, Ohio to the late Charles “Charlie” Prince and Elizabeth “Jane” (Spiker) Smythe.
Cindy was a proud graduate of Coshocton High School’s Class of 1974. She went on to build a rewarding career as a physical therapist aide, dedicating her life to helping others. For 30 years, she faithfully served as a receptionist at the Galion YMCA, where her compassion, commitment, and genuine care touched the lives of countless individuals. Her years of service were marked by meaningful connections and a lasting impact on the community she loved.
On March 17, 1974, Cindy married the love of her life, Timothy “Tim” Laird. Together they built a life filled with unwavering love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Their marriage was a testament to their deep devotion to one another, and they shared many wonderful years side by side.
Above all else, Cindy was a caregiver. Selfless and generous, she dedicated her life to serving others, always putting the needs of her family and those around her before her own. Her caring heart gave her the opportunity to see the world and embrace new adventures while caring for others, creating memories and experiences she treasured. Cindy was also an incredibly proud mother of four, and she never missed an opportunity to talk about her children. Whether visiting with friends or striking up a conversation with a stranger, she delighted in sharing stories of their lives and accomplishments. She found her greatest joy in caring for the people she loved and never hesitated to lend a helping hand.
Cindy lived life with an adventurous spirit and loved making memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether spending time at Lake Erie, taking trips to Cedar Point, or cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events, she treasured every moment with her family. She also enjoyed live music, dancing, gambling, collecting Longaberger baskets, Thirty-One bags, and Pampered Chef products, and was rarely without a glass of V-8 tomato juice. She was affectionately known for overpacking, making sure she was prepared for every adventure.
A courageous cancer survivor, Cindy faced life’s challenges with strength, determination, and her signature wit. She was straightforward, full of common sense, and loved deeply. Above all, she cherished her husband, Tim, and the family they built together. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love will live on in all who knew her.
Left to cherish Cindy’s memory are her beloved husband, Tim Laird; her children, Shannon (Jason) Epps, Sean (Christina) Laird, Stephen (Abbey) Laird, and Stacie (Sean) Brady; her grandchildren, Mallory Hinton, Jasmine Hinton, Reese Miller, Lilly Laird, J.J. Laird, Ethan Laird, Lennie Brady, and Talon Brady; her great-grandchildren, Dawson Beverly and Abel Beverly; her mother, Jane Smythe; and her siblings, C. Doug (Libbie) Prince, David (Renee) Prince, and Brian (Becky) Prince.
She was preceded in death by her father, Charlie Prince, and her stepfather, John “Junior” Smythe.
Family and friends may call on Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gompf Funeral Service-Galion Chapel. A funeral service will immediately follow at 4:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made out to the American Cancer Society or to The OSU James Hospital.
Those wishing to share a memory of Cindy or send condolences to the Laird family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel, 303 Portland Way N., Galion is honored to serve the family of Cynthia “Cindy” Diane Laird.
Funeral Home: Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel
Website: www.masfh.com