Family and friends of Cynthia Stewart gathered May 30 in Olympia to honor and say good-bye to a woman whose impact, they all agreed, will continue to be felt for years to come on the League of Women Voters — and on society. 

Among League members paying their respects were members of the Lobby Team, which Cynthia led for several years, and state League President Karen Crowley, who was invited by Cynthia’s family to offer remarks. 

Cynthia was a member of both the Thurston and the Tacoma-Pierce County Leagues and had served on the boards of directors of both locals, Crowley noted. She also served multiple terms on the state League board, most recently as first vice president for advocacy. 

Crowley said Cynthia generously shared her knowledge, judgment and experience, regularly mentoring others, and that she led the Lobby Team with skill and dedication. Her gifts for organizing, leadership, and clear communication helped create a Lobby Team that will be capable of pursuing important work for many years.  

Cynthia brought intelligence, commitment and generosity to every part of her work with the League, Crowley said. “Her leadership strengthened our advocacy, her mentorship empowered our members, and her dedication advanced our mission. She is — and will continue to be — deeply missed.” 

Cynthia Joy Stewart was born in 1947 and died April 6, 2026. She is survived by her sons, David, Michael, Scott and Eric; four grandchildren; two brothers; one sister; and two nieces and two nephews. 

The Abigail Stuart House, the historic building where the memorial was held, was built in 1908 and was named for a founding member and the first president of the Women’s Club of Olympia. Stuart was also a prominent local leader in the women’s early suffrage movement in the Pacific Northwest.