Cynthia Jo Herrick

Cynthia Jo Herrick, 55, of Richford, passed away unexpectedly on March 10, 2025. Born on September 4, 1969, Cyndi's vibrant spirit and creative soul brought joy and inspiration to all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, art, and education that will be cherished by her family, friends, and the many students she guided throughout her years as a devoted teacher.

Cyndi is survived by her twin daughters, who were the center of her life, Sophia and Lily Karasin, her mother and stepfather Barbara and Kenneth Miller, her sister and brother-in-law, Candace and Robert Kemp, her mother and father-in-law Flora and Louis Karasin, her boyfriend Don Baragiano, as well and many aunts, uncles, and extended family.

She was predeceased by her husband and high school sweetheart Dore Karasin, and her father James Herrick.

After earning her master's degree in education, Cyndi taught high school mathematics, touching the lives of countless students across various schools in the Ithaca Central School District. Cyndi's commitment to her community extended beyond the classroom, where she served on the board for the town of Richford, with one of her most significant contributions was her involvement with Rawley Park. She was the driving force behind the coordination of a stunning mosaic mural that added beauty and character to the park.

Cyndi loved trivia nights, live music events and spending time with her boyfriend Don and close friends. She had an abiding love of music - particularly blues - and her interests were as diverse as they were profound.

An exceptionally talented artist, Cyndi found joy and tranquility in painting, embroidery, needle felting, cross-stitching, quilting, stained glass art, and crocheting, always intrigued to try different art forms. She also enjoyed the time spent with her daughters, whether it be cruising to the Bahamas or playing a game of monopoly, the bond she had with them was unbreakable.

Described by those who knew her best as creative, loving, and passionate, Cyndi's absence will be profoundly felt by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Her spirit, however, will continue to shine brightly in the memories she leaves behind and, in the impact, she made on the world through her art, her teaching, and her unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of others.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life for Cyndi on Saturday March 15, 2025, at the Richford Congregational Church, 13290 Route 38, Richford, NY 13835, at 11:00 a.m. An additional Celebration of Life will be held at The Foundation of Light in Ithaca, NY at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution designated to “Rawley Park” in loving memory of Cynthia Herrick. C/o Town of Richford - Cynthia Herrick Memorial Fund. Memories and condolences can be shared in her online guest book at www.macphersonfh.com. The family is under the caring assistance of the MacPherson Funeral Home in Newark Valley.