Cynthia Rugg-Thonvold

January 3, 1944 - January 21, 2026Jan 3, 1944 - Jan 21, 2026

Tucson, Arizona, United StatesTucson, AZ

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·280 visits

Cynthia Rugg-Thonvold entered our planet on January 3, 1944 and left on January 21, 2026, surrounded by love and the peace she brought so effortlessly into the world. Cynthia was an extraordinary friend, mother, sister, and soul whose joyful spirit had a way of brightening every day. She made life fun—often in the simplest, most beautiful ways.

She is survived by her loving husband, Roger Thonvold, and her children, Shawn Avey and Heather Caldwell, who together carry forward her legacy through their four children and four grandchildren.

Cynthia is also survived by her amazing sisters Hazel and Mary Louis (Murphy) Rugg, and her brother Bill Rugg. She is reunited in peace with her brother Paul Rugg, who preceded her in death.

For all who had the privilege of knowing her, PEACE was more than a word—it was Cynthia’s guiding motto. It flowed through every part of her life, reflected in her clothing, her jewelry, her home, and her presence.

Cynthia, you will be deeply missed. It has been an honor to share life with you.

PEACE be with you.

Memorial created on January 22, 2026. Last updated on January 22, 2026.

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Shanelle AveyFeb 2

She was kind, yet sassy. She was fun loving, and adored nature. She called my fiance, Jesse Luna, my "Moon Man." She adored chickens and Siamese cats. She had a sense of self, of who she was, that I hope to harbor someday. Because of my family, including Grama Cynthia, I was able to experience Mt Lemmon regularly, and despite not appreciating it as a child - hindsight is 20/20, and MT Lemmon is now my version of heaven. From now on, when I go, I'll say a little prayer for her, and revisit my memories with her...

Lewis StoreyFeb 1

Cynthia was such a joy to be around. She had a wonderful and sometimes wicked sense of humor. One of my fondest memories of Cynthia was when she joined my family on a trip to Mission Beach. I always wanted to downplay being a “Zonie”, which just wasn’t cool. Cynthia caught wind of my posing and marched down to the beach wrapped in a beach towel with a road map of Arizona on it, laughing hysterically at her little practical joke. On the same trip, we were eating at Anthony’s seafood restaurant in La Jolla with the entire family, including Jim Bull (appropriately named), Jerrilyne’s new husband, who was a real jerk. He claimed to be a professional surfer, but turned out to be a lazy freeloader. When he ordered steak and lobster, Cynthia said in a whisper you could hear in the kitchen, “Can you believe the balls on that guy?” She was a character, and I loved her and I will miss her a lot.

Jane StoreyJan 31

It’s evident from the lovely tributes, that Cynthia touched many lives in such a positive way. I remember years ago driving to her beautiful home in the valley for her to cut and style my hair. Those trips were just as much about the conversations and laughs as they were about the hairstyle. She was very accomplished at both. Our outings to the Rugg cabin and family holiday gatherings at the Storey’s fill my heart with fond memories of spending time with her. When I think of gratitude, I think of how she enriched my life. Cynthia, you will live on in the hearts of all us. We love and miss you.

Shelby RuggJan 24

Every memory I have of Aunt Cynthia are ones of love, joy, and style. She knew how to have fun and how to love the people around her well. Kind, humble, down to earth come to my mind to describe Cynthia. Trips to Mount Lemon, Puerto Penasco, and anything in between we made memories I'll cherish forever. Phone calls and mailed prayers kept us connected at one time🙏 I love you auntie Cynthia, I'm so lucky to have had a family member like you, and I hope I may carry on your optimism and love 💜

Wendi Martinez Jan 22

I grew up down the street from Cynthia and was lucky enough to have her as my sweet, plant-loving bonus mom for 45+ years. I fondly remember her being a hard-working woman who fiercely loved her family & friends. She was always so optimistic and encouraging with a huge heart for all of God's creations! And though life got in the way, and I wasn't able to see her as much as I'd have liked in recent years, I've thought of her often and will miss her dearly. I love you mom and pray you're enjoying paradise!

Cynthia Rugg-Thonvold

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