In memory of

Cynthia Ann Burley

October 15, 1959 -  June 13, 2024



It is with very sad and heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved Cindy. Surrounded by family and friends, she passed away on June 13, 2024.

A devoted daughter, she will be missed by her mother, Joanne. She leaves behind, her brother, Steven and partner, Ron. She was predeceased by her Dad, Ken. Cindy was a cherished friend to many.

She was a much loved honorary “Aunty Cindy” who adored her “nieces and nephews” and their families. She was very proud of their accomplishments.

Cindy had a distinguished 31 year career in Special Education. Although she won numerous awards and held several positions of responsibility within the TDSB, retiring as a System Superintendent, she always viewed herself as a teacher and cared about supporting and advocating for each student and family. Her leadership and vision had a great impact, system wide.

Cindy retired in June 2014. It was then that she could embrace all of her interests. She loved to travel and was an avid birdwatcher. She enjoyed many other hobbies. She was a prolific crocheter, and a talented gardener and painter. Cindy loved her dogs, Tasha and Tara.

Cindy was very grateful for the outpouring of love and support she received during her illness. It was a journey of strength, courage, conviction and grace.

According to her wishes, a private funeral was held.
In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to donate to the following charities: The Friends of Algonquin Park or The Friends of Point Pelee, where Cindy often visited.

She will live in our hearts forever.

Guestbook 

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Melissa Fairey (Honorary niece)

Entered June 23, 2024 from Toronto

Sending my love and condolences to Cindy’s mother Joanne, and brother Steven, for this indescribable loss and to whom Cindy loved and adored so very much. We love you, Cindy and will miss you forever. Love Melissa, Meadow and Michael.

Karen Forbes 

Entered June 23, 2024

From the first time I interviewed Cindy right up to the last month of her life, her sense of purpose and determination were the hallmarks of how she lived her life. Everything she did was informed by vision whether it was a vision for children and especially those with special needs, or a vision for her schools and the special education department or a vision as to how she would navigate her illness. She was thoughtful, intentional and impactful and as a result, in her career, her influence extended far beyond the classroom to include the families of her students, her colleagues and me.
In her professional and personal life, Cindy exemplified courage, compassion, resolve and especially humour which was always laced with affection and a healthy dose of sarcasm. Her strength and resilience inspired me, demonstrating what it means to face adversity personally and professionally with grace and determination.
I feel privileged to have known Cindy not only as a colleague but also as a friend. She enriched my life in countless ways, and I am forever grateful for the laughter, wisdom and support she shared with me. Her spirit will live on in the way she touched my life and my memories of her.

Karen Forbes

Kevin Finlayson (Friend)

Entered June 24, 2024 from Toronto, ON

I first met Cindy at the Columbus Centre and I was amazed by her patience and dry sense of humor. We took a class together at U of T where she decided it was time to teach me how to drive so that I could surprise her dear friend, Gina. She was so patient with me but I got my license! Cindy was your friend for life. She will be sorely missed.

Kelly komar (Work colleague)

Entered June 24, 2024 from Toronto

I had the privilege of working with Cindy for many years when she was a supervising Principal and then Superintendent. She was a wonderful leader who served students with kindness. She will be missed. Condolences to her family.

Lydia Tisma (Colleague)

Entered June 25, 2024 from Toronto

I had the privilege and pleasure of working under Cindy’s leadership when she was the superintendent of the TDSB Special Education Department. She was an exemplary and visionary leader and I admired her humility, integrity, and her unwavering purpose. Her dedication and commitment to students with disabilities were tremendous and set a benchmark for others.

Cindy truly enriched the lives of all her students, staff and colleagues. We will always be grateful for her generosity of spirit, support and guidance.

Deepest condolences to the family for their loss. May your happy memories of Cindy give you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Photos 

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