Updated with Service Information:

Cynthia Jo Hayworth (Van Rees), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and a dedicated nurse, passed away on January 5th, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on March 20th, 1949, in Newton, Iowa, Cynthia (Cindy) was the youngest child of three born to Cecil and Minnie Van Rees. She attended Sully Christian Grade School for her elementary education and graduated from Pella Christian High School in 1967. Following her passion for healthcare, she earned her nursing degree from Iowa Lutheran School of Nursing in 1970.

Cindy commenced her illustrious nursing career at Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis and subsequently served in several esteemed hospitals throughout Des Moines, which included Des Moines General Hospital for over 35 years. With over 50 years of experience, she demonstrated profound compassion and commitment to her patients, touching countless lives throughout her time as a nurse.

In 1970, Cindy met the love of her life, Terry Hayworth, on a blind double date. They were married on March 17th, 1972, in Sully, Iowa. Shortly after they married, they moved to Mitchellville, their current home, where they raised their four children. Their union was marked by a deep bond and shared joy in life's moments. An avid gardener, Cindy found great pleasure in tending to her numerous types of plants and flowers, relishing their vibrant beauty-though she held a particular aversion to yellow tulips. She expressed her creativity through cooking, sewing, quilting, crafting, and decorating for any holiday, especially during her favorite, the Christmas season, filling her home with warmth and joy. Cindy was always good for a funny story, even though she lived a life that was self-described as "unassuming."

A woman of faith, she dedicated her life to Christ at the age of 15, inspiring her family with her unwavering love and devotion. Above all, Cindy cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, attending numerous activities and celebrations for her children and grandchildren. She would always come prepared with a bag or two or three of snacks, toys, and emergency supplies to keep those around her well-fed and entertained. Whether rain or shine, snow, or sandstorm; she would always be there to cheer them on. With her unmatched support, she created a legacy of love and laughter.

Cindy's family will greet friends for visitation on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:00 - 10:00 AM at Grace Alive Church in Prairie City, Iowa. A memorial service will directly follow visitation, starting at 10:00 AM. Everyone is invited to a time of food and fellowship after the memorial service at Grace Alive. Burial will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 9, 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made out to Grace Alive Church in Memory of Cindy Hayworth, donations will benefit a flower garden project in her memory.

Those left in honor of her memory include her husband; Terry, their children and grandchildren:

Joseph and Celeste Hayworth of Mitchellville, Iowa

Alixandria Hayworth, Landyn Hayworth

Amy and Bryan McGhee of Mitchellville, Iowa

Kayla McGhee, Lindzey McGhee

Andrew and Lesley Hayworth of Bondurant, Iowa

Talan Hayworth, Dylan Hayworth, Braydon Ruley

Corbin Hayworth, Paityn Hayworth, Logan Hayworth

Matthew Hayworth and Kendra Bownds of Colfax, Iowa

Iris Hayworth

Her sister Jean Arkema of Sioux Center, Iowa, and her family members

A sister-in-law Delores Van Rees, of Pella, Iowa, and her family members

Also left to remember Cindy are several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews and her many cherished

Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents; Cecil and Minnie (Jansen) Van Rees, a brother; Gary Van Rees, and a brother-in-law Lewis Arkema; Parents-in-law Ivan and Jeannette (Norton) Hayworth; sisters-in-law Karon Hayworth and Carol Norris and a brother-in-law Paul Hayworth.

Cynthia Jo Hayworth will be fondly remembered for her nurturing heart, delightful humor, and unwavering love for her family, extended family, and friends.