It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Cynthia L. Samms, beloved mother, grandmother and friend to more than can be said. Cynthia was born July 10, 1933, in Wallace to Leo G. and Maxine (Peggy) Huguenin.

She grew up and graduated from Mullan, class of 1951. On June 10, 1955, she married Herbert C. Samms in Wallace where they set up home and raised two sons. In her spare time, she enjoyed music, giving piano lessons at home and playing organ at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church of which she was a lifetime member.

In 1974, Cynthia returned to the University of Idaho in Moscow to pursue a bachelor’s and later a master’s degree in education. She taught elementary school for 20 years in the Wallace School District. Cynthia and Herb retired in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where they enjoyed travel, golf and following Gonzaga basketball. She was also active in PEO and Sweet Adelines for a number of years.

She was preceded in death by both parents and, in 2010, beloved husband Herb after 53 years of marriage. Survivors include son Scott and Bonnie Samms of Juneau, Alaska; son Bret Samms of Coeur d’Alene; granddaughters Skye Samms, Jade and Shawn Austin of Winnemucca, Nev., and Hailey and Andrew Fryjoff of Sparks, Nev.; grandsons Michael and Matthew Samms; and great-grandson Gage Samms.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 501 E. Wallace Ave., Coeur d’Alene, with a reception and celebration of life to follow.

In lieu of flowers, it’s suggested to make a donation to a deserving charity in her name.

The family wishes to thank friends old and new, Hospice House of Coeur d’Alene, and the Affinity community of Coeur d’Alene for support during her sudden and unexpected illness.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Cynthia’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.