Cynthia Marie (Vaughn) Buhman, age 69, of Stewartsville, Missouri, passed away on April 10, surrounded by her loving husband, Joe, and family.
She was born on August 19, 1956, to Buford and Noma Vaughn. Cindy grew up in Maysville, graduated from Maysville High School, and the foundation of her faith was planted early in the Maysville United Methodist Church, which would guide the rest of her life.
After high school, Cindy attended the University of Missouri, where she received a bachelor’s degree in journalism.
Cindy was married to her beloved husband, Joseph, for nearly 49 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community. Before entering ministry, Cindy devoted herself to her family as a stay-at-home mom for 14 years, while also providing childcare, substitute teaching, directing a preschool, and writing for the local newspaper. She was a patient, kind, and deeply dedicated mother who faithfully supported and encouraged her children in every season of life.
Her call to ministry came in an unexpected but unmistakable way in 1995. After being encouraged to consider pastoral ministry, Cindy stepped out in faith, began seminary in 1996, and never looked back. She graduated from Saint Paul School of Theology with a Master of Divinity degree in 2000, was commissioned as a provisional elder, and ordained in 2003.
Over 27 years of ministry in the United Methodist Church, Cindy faithfully served congregations in Winston, Stanberry, St. Joseph Ashland, Bethany, Savannah, Clair, and Ebenezer, as well as serving as Northwest District Superintendent. While she valued every role, her heart was always in the local church; building relationships, walking alongside people in both their highest and lowest moments, and helping others see God at work in their lives.
Cindy was known for her warmth, positivity, and gift of encouragement. She was a natural cheerleader, always celebrating even the smallest victories and reminding others of God’s goodness. Her faith in Christ was not only something she spoke about, it was something she lived daily.
One of her greatest joys was her family. Being “Grammy” (or “Mimi”) was the role she cherished most. She spent countless hours reading books, working puzzles, attending games, meets, and concerts, and simply being present with her grandchildren. Whether cheering at a ballgame or sitting quietly with a book, she made each child feel deeply loved and known. In her retirement years, she also treasured time spent with her mother, Noma, sharing visits, conversations, and the simple gift of being together.
Cindy also shared a love of travel with Joe. Together they explored much of the United States and Europe, enjoying both land and sea journeys. Her faith carried her across the world as well, including mission work in Mozambique and a meaningful journey through the Holy Land.
She is survived by her mother, Noma Vaughn; her sister, Cheryl Salyer; her husband, Joseph Buhman; her sons: Lucas Buhman (Rebecca) and their children Kaden, Xander, and Trey; Mitchell Buhman (Laura) and their children Grant and Owen; and Ethan Buhman (Kelsey) and their daughter Finley.
She was preceded in death by her father, Buford Vaughn.
A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held on April 18, with the service beginning at 6:00 P.M. at Clair United Methodist Church, with a time of receiving friends and family beginning at 4:00 P.M. Guests are encouraged to wear Cindy’s favorite color, purple.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Evolution United Methodist Church or St. Mary’s Cemetery, c/o Mary Bray, 6380 SW Oakridge Rd, Stewartsville, MO 64490.
Cindy often reminded others to “go and love and serve the Lord in all that you do.” That is how she lived — and how she would want to be remembered.
