NEWPORT NEWS VIRGINIA-Cynthia A (Pratt) Millard, of Newport News Virginia, a vibrant and cherished soul, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, in Yorktown, VA, at the age of 78. Born on May 10, 1948, in Montpelier, VT, Cindy lived a life brimming with love, laughter, and an unwavering zest for life.

She was a proud graduate of Montpelier High Schools; class of 1966, where she participated in a myriad of school activities including, not surprisingly, Future Teachers of America. Her academic pursuits led her to earn a Degree in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Pace University in New York City, a testament to her lifelong passion for learning and teaching.

Throughout her career as a teacher, she touched countless young lives with her warmth, wisdom, and dedication. Her love for children was boundless, and she found immense joy in imparting knowledge and inspiring curiosity in her students.

In her youth, Cindy delighted in her proficiency as a competitive swimmer, spending many a summer day excelling in local swim meets and water carnivals. An avid golfer and member of the Ladies Golf Association at Kiln Creek Country Club, she embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Whether on the golf course or in everyday life, her competitive spirit was always evident.

She had a knack for making everyone feel like family. She never met a stranger and delighted in conversing with people from all walks of life. Known for her honesty and forthright nature, Cindy’s words were as genuine as her heart, and she was beloved for her candidness (most of the time).

Her Italian heritage was a source of pride, and she celebrated it through her love for family, food, and tradition. Her cross-stitch creations were masterpieces that reflected her artistry and attention to detail. She was a tolerated little sister to brother Bob, and a protector to little brother Dick, who remembers a number of times when she came to the rescue.

In 1969, a chance encounter arranged by her brother, Bob Pratt, led her to meet the love of her life, Robert Millard, Jr., at a formal event at West Point. They married on August 14, 1971 at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Montpelier, VT, walking through a sword arch orchestrated by Cindy for their wedding- a memory cherished forever.

She was a devoted member of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church and St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Newport News, VA. Her faith was a guiding force, providing strength and comfort throughout her life’s journey.

Preceded in death by her husband, Robert Millard, Jr. daughter Michelle Bunch, parents Robert and Angie Pratt, brother Robert Pratt, and nephew Christopher Richard Pratt, Cindy’s legacy continues through her surviving family: her brother Richard Pratt (Anne), her nieces and nephews Anthony W. Pratt, Abbey L. Pratt, Robert Holbrook Pratt, Melissa Pratt Jimenez (Lee), and sister-in-law Jeanette Pratt; husband Robert’s siblings Barbara Anne Stone (Archie), William J. Millard, and Donald A Millard; his nieces, Heather Iaderosa (Giuseppe), Amie Rednick, Alta Abel (John), and Heidi Millard; his nephews, Robert Stone, Jason and Justin Millard, as well as a host of extended loving family members and numerous dear friends and associates who were fortunate to share in her laughter and love.

Her final year of life was enhanced by the loving care of two very special people, Donna O’Hara, and Helen Burke. The family wishes to thank them for the attention and caregiving they provided for the last chapter of Cindy’s life. Helen in particular was a family friend of the Millard’s and her companion/caregiver during her last year, ultimately remaining by her side during her final days.

Cindy Millard was truly a beacon of positivity and resilience who inspired all who knew her. Her spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched, reminding us to live fully, love deeply, and embrace each day with the same fervor she did.

She truly loved her Vermont roots, returning “home” on many occasions with Bob to visit friends and family, partake of the changing seasons, and enjoy the sunshine and snow. Accordingly, Cindy will be laid to rest in Vermont alongside her husband Bob and daughter Michelle at a future date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Montpelier, Vermont or the Alzheimer’s Association in Cindy’s memory.