Cynthia McAuley 69, died at Portsmouth Regional Hospital on January 20, 2026.   

Born in Littleton, New Hampshire on December 31, 1956, she was the beloved daughter of Ralph D. and Helen (Benton) Steele, Jr.  Cindy grew up in Thornton and was a graduate of Thornton Central School, Lin-Wood High School and Houle’s Beauty Academy. 

Cindy had many careers during her lifetime with the last being a caregiver with Comfort Keepers. She was a longtime Supervisor of the Checklist for the Town of Thornton. Hers was one of the first faces you saw as you entered the White Mountain Boogie & Blues handing out passes, programs, and directions.  She was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

She was preceded in death by her husband; son, Kyle; infant daughter, Ashley; her brother, Gregg; and her parents and grandparents.

She is survived by her sister, Kathryn (Kathy) Tobine and her husband David; brother Paul Steele, Sr. of Thornton, NH; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Services and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cindy’s memory to Dartmouth Cancer Center, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756 or online at dhmcalumdev.hitchcock.org.