I am deeply shocked and saddened. I knew Cynthia since she was a little girl.she grew up into this lovely kids beautiful soul and I still kept in touch on Facebook. She was an amazing talent and I so enjoyed her photography . I am at a loss in how God takes the good ones first -to the family -may your family friends and memories ease your sorrow. My heart is breaking 🙏🙏💔💔

I only met Cynthia a few years ago when my son Tyler married her sister Ashley. But she quiclky made an impression on me as a very outgoing and kind person. She did the photography for their wedding and the pictures were truly amazing! She was a very talented photographer.

Since then she took wonderful pictures of my twin grandsons and her twin nephews as well as photographing my nephew's wedding. Because of her skill she was very much in demand and had a very full schedule.

But in spite of her busy career she always made time for her family. She was a great help to my son and his wife with their babies and helping out around their house as well.

It is said that one true measure of a person is the amount of lives that they touch.Cynthia"s Celebration of her Life was a stellar example of that. I have never seen so many people at a funeral before. Everyone was grieving her loss and talking about what she meant to them. Her passing leaves a huge void in all of our lives but especially those of her family and Sara.

To them I would just like to say that my heart is broken for you.

You will carry her memory in your hearts forever and she will never be forgotten. Her legacy of love and kindness will be with you always.

Heaven now has another angel as much as we wish she were still here with all her loved ones. May you find some peace in the knowledge that she was loved by many and will never be forgotten.

Such very sad news. Cynthia was always smiling and full of life. I bought my first guitar because of her and she taught me how to play. I will always remember that smile. Condolences to the family ❤️

I was so so sorry and shocked to hear of the passing of Cynthia. I first met Cynthia when I was around 16 - over 20 years ago. We met online via a group for fans of the reality series BootCamp - specifically the contestant Kasi Brown. Such a nerdy way to meet. Despite our geographical and time difference (me being in London, UK), we chatted at all hours. On more than one occasion my mum gave me a huge telling off for being online at 2am voice chatting on MSN. We shared so much.

I finally met Cynthia in person in 2016 when she came to my home city of London which was totally surreal, overwhelming and amazing. She was a beautiful person.

To be honest I always assumed she’d always be in my life in some way and that we would meet again - she was regularly in my thoughts and I was so happy she'd made a career out of her photography talent and made a little family with Sara and Beau. I am devastated that she is gone. Thinking of you all.

So sorry for everyone's loss Cynthia and I met along time ago ahe always was kind and will be missed greatly

John, Maria, Sara, Alyssa, Ashley, Nelson, thinking of you and wishing you all strength and comfort as you learn to carry the weight of this grief.

I didn't know Cythnia well but met. her a few times through her talented brother Nelson. I was so saddened to hear this. I do know she was an excellent photographer and I enjoyed seeingi her photos. Sending condolenses to the family in this difficult time. xo/kayla

I remember Cynthia while she was a new operator at Winnipeg Transit. We often spoke while she was on report and I was either Dispatching or Timekeeping. You were always smiling and will always be smiling on us, though memories, music and art. You are a beautiful soul, now go photograph your heart out..!

Cynthia was an amazing friend; listening ear, advice giver, cheer leader. She was there for me through tough break ups, big life changes, and milestones. She rooted for me in a way that no one else could... always making me feel like I was doing the right thing.

I will miss our late night texting chats, hangouts at the pool, patio drinks, and just being near her. Her energy was so positive and contagious.

Sending love and condolences to her family, Sara, Beau, and all of her other friends (who I know are missing her already, just like me).

Love you Cyn, thanks for always havibg my back! I wish we had more time.

Cynthia.

A great friend, she was kind, loving, the funniest human and was always cheering you on.

We met at a photography workshop in 2015ish and we clicked instantly! we instantly made fun of each other, she was a city slicker and I was the country bumpkin.

She was a mentor, a friend, a cheerleader and I already miss her so much. She loved Sara and Beau and she talked about how happy she was being a new aunt!

Babe, you were one of kind, you were loved everywhere you went and you were the most talented photographer.

Sending so much love to her family, Sara and Beau. ♥️

Love,

Cric

John, Maria and family.

Completey shocked of leaning the news of Cynthia's passing.I hold many fond memories of Coacing and sharing many summer evenings on the soccer pitch with our girls . My heart goes out to all

Dearest Bettencourt family,

I share with you my deepest condolences. I was so saddened to learn of Cynthia's passing. I knew her as big sister to Ashley, Alyssa and Nelson. She was always there at every concert supporting her younger siblings. John and Maria, you are so dear to me and and my heart just aches for you. Ashley, Alyssa and Nelson, I'm so sorry for the loss of your sister. She loved you all so much. Sending you all comfort and strength.

Love Stacey Nattrass Brown

I first met Cynthia when I second shot a wedding with her. I remember being so nervous because she was such an insanely talented photographer. The second we met in person, the nerves instantly melted away. She was warm, friendly, funny, took me under her wing and we spent the entire day chatting. We bonded over a love for our dogs- she loved Beau so much!

As so many others have mentioned, she really had a way of making you feel important and special in the most genuine way. Cynthia was always celebrating, mentoring and uplifting her fellow photographers. I will always be grateful for the times we worked together and wish there had been more of them.

I had the pleasure of meeting the Sara and Bettencourt family when I helped Cynthia shoot Ashley’s wedding. Everyone was so kind and it was easy to see how much you love one another.

To her family and loved ones, I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Rest easy, Cynthia 💕 you will be greatly missed

I remember Cynthia fondly when she worked for CKJS 810 AM in Production at the station. She was an amazing person and did such an incredible job in producing for our Portuguese program and other shows on the station. God Bless & Rest in Peace Cynthia. My condolences go out to her family and friends. Descanse em Paz.

I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Cynthia in person, but we had spoken over email regarding her taking photographs for my engagement and wedding. She was very sweet and eager to help capture the day for us. Her photos were absolutely breath taking and it is evident that she had an amazing talent.

My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Dear Maria, John, Alyssa, Ashley & Tyler, Nelson & Marvin and Sara,

I cannot find the words to express how heartbroken I am for all of you. I will always remember Cynthia very fondly, most especially her wonderful, fun and warm personality as well as her deep love for her family. My thoughts are with you all.

Love Fran Blair

Dear Sara and Family,

Please accept my deepest condolences on Cynthia's passing. My heart is heavy for you.

i recently met Cynthia in Maui where she took my son's and his fiancée's engagement photos. She generously included all of the attending 17 family members in one of the photo shoots, enchanting everyone with her fun loving energies, and artfully directing us in what are now the most beautiful family photos that we will cherish forever.

Cynthia told us how much she missed Sara while in Maui, and how closely bonded she was to her family. I hope that all of you might take solace in the many lives she touched along her path in life, the love she easily expressed she felt for you, and the legacy of the photos she left us all.

My deepest condolences to Cynthia's family, partner and friends.This truly breaks my heart to hear of her passing.

I had the pleasure of being one of her instructors at Winnipeg Transit. We got to know each other well over our training days and her infectious laughter always made my day better. When she shared her passion for photography with me, I let her know that I'm a photography graduate. She was excited to talk about photography after work hours and often asked me to critique her photos. I always told her she had a natural gift and would make it in the tough photography industy.

Rest in peace Cynthia, my memories of you will always make me smile.

Dear Sara and family. I am so sorry to hear of Cynthia's passing and send my heartfelt condolences to you and Cynthia's family.

To Sara and Cynthia's family. There are no words that can express how heartbroken I am for all of you. Please know I am sending you my thoughts for peace and energy as you walk through this sad time.

Cynthia was a true gem. She was one of those rare individuals who actually could light up a room with their presence - with her genuine warmth, infectious positivity and beautiful smile. She had a unique and enthusiastic way of making you feel instantly welcomed and cared for - a true 'people person'.

Cynthia is my nephew Tyler's sister-in-law. And from the moment we first met, we knew Cynthia considered us all to be family. It was not hard to see that her partner Sara, and her family were her world. And recently, we know just how much she relished in being a wonderful auntie to Tanner and Aidan.

Cynthia became a real friend to her many clients as well, as she did to my son Kirk and his wife Kylie. Cynthia shared and captured beautifully many special occasions for them over the last few years.

Sara, John and Maria, Alyssa, Ashley and Tyler, Nelson and Marvin - we hold you all close in our hearts during this difficult and sorrowful time. May you continue to find comfort from each other and in the many memories of the special times spent together. With much love, Kathy and Kerry

It's taken me a few days to process this devastating news, and decide what would i should write here.

Cynthia will always hold a special place in my heart.

Her and I met as teens working at Blockbuster Video on Leila. I was around 16 and she was around 17 I believe. As soon as I met her, I felt as though she radiated a positivity and friendliness I had never encountered in life before.

Cynthia made you feel great just by being in her presence, and I think this is what I will miss the most. Even all these years later, she still exuded this positivity and confidence that made this world a better place.

Cynthia was also a major influence in my young life. She was the first person that I had confided in enough to admit that I was a gay man. As she was also part of the LGBT+ community, she welcomed me with open arms and was the first person that showed me that I could be happy to be just the way I was, and to be proud of that fact. That I didn't need to hide my true self away. This I will never forget and am constantly thankful for.

In adulthood, I saw Cynthia thrive and she was always committed to whatever project or job she had. Eventually she was able to make a living doing her most favourite thing in the world, photography. I'll always be so proud of her and the photographic record of her talents. Her memory will live on in history, every time someone looks upon one of her photos.

Cynthia, I will remember you til the End of my days. I am so proud and thankful for having known you. I will miss you very much.

To Cynthia's family and her partner: I am so sorry for your loss. Cynthia was an angel among us.

You are forever in our hearts.

Ryan

Our deepest Sympathy in the loss of your Daugher & Sister.

Cherish all the memories.

Hugs From Peter & Joanne Cohoe

I knew Cynthia for the time she worked at Winnipeg Transit. I was lucky to have Cynthia in my group at work and she did share some of her photography with me. Cynthia was a very talented artist and a lively and engaging individual. I am so sad to hear of her passing.

To Cynthia's family. My partner Craig and I send our deepest condolences. We both met Cynthia at separate times in our lives but also knew her together. In 2016 , Craig and I travelled to London for a trip and found out Cynthia would be there at the same time, to celebrate her birthday. She invited us to join her for a birthday dinner and then for a night out. It's a memory that stuck with us all these years later.

We are so incredibly sorry for your loss and are sending you so much love. Cynthia was a such kind hearted person, she will be greatly missed.

To Maria, John & Family- our heartfelt condolences on your loss. We hope that the cherised moments you shared will bring you some comfort.

So sorry for the passing of your daughter. Our condolences . Dina and Boneca.

I went to Belmont/Avery elementary with Cynthia and again at MBCI for high school. I always thought of her as friendly and joyful. I'm so very sorry for this incredible loss for you all. Prayers for peace and comfort

On be half of the Daneault family,

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Bettencourt's and loved ones of Cynthia. We will deeply miss our kind and caring neighbour who always had a warm smile and always expressed kindness. Watching and growing up with Cynthia was a pleasure and made our small neighbourhood community a brighter place. May they rest in peace and will deeply be missed.

I am so sorry for your loss, John and Maria and family. Such talent. Gone too soon! Condolences.

I met Cynthia in the fall of 2014 when I booked her for an engagement session. She had such a talented eye for capturing the most heartfelt moments through her lens. We both had pugs and loved talking about how amazing they were to each other. We also both had a love of travel and I enjoyed the memories of places and experiences she would share with me. She was such a natural, warm conversationalist and it was always a pleasure running into her. I was happy when two seperate cousins booked her for their weddings and we had an opportunity to catch up. Cynthia will be greatly missed and always remembered. My condolences to all of her loved ones.

Cynthia had a way to make you feel loved, cared about and seen in every interaction you had with her. I had the opportunity to meet her when I worked with her on her sister Ashley's wedding but then got to work with her two more times that same year. Cynthia always had me laughing at the table and smiling. At the last wedding we did together she left 2 hours later than planned because her and I couldn't stop talking.

We kept trying to make plans to hang out but it never worked for our schedules and I will regret that forever. However, I will cherish every moment we did have together.

I feel honoured that I got to work along side her on her sister's wedding and had the opportunity to get to know her family as well. To the Bettencourt family, the love you all have for eachother radiates off of you and is a very special thing. I am so sorry for the loss of your partner, daughter, sister and aunty. I know there will always be a piece of your family missing but she loved you all fiercly and completely. To the boys, you had an aunty who loved you tons and was so proud to be an aunty.

Rest easy Cynthia, you are going to be deeply missed.

My sincerest condolences to John and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray for your family to heal during this extremely difficult time.

Ruby and I are deeply saddened to hear of Cynthia’s passing. We were privileged to have known her. She was a special soul whose warmth and kindness touched us the moment we met her.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Sara, and all of Cynthia’s family and friends during this difficult time. May you all find solace in the cherished memories and the indelible mark she left on all those she loved.

John, Maria, family, and Sara.

Although we only met Cynthia on a handful of occasions she created a lasting impression of a lovely gregarious woman with a big personality that could light up a room.

Please know that we here for you, and we are sending our love and support.

To my neice Sara and to Cynthia's family, sending my heartfelt condolences. Though I did not know Cynthia well; I do know that she was quick to put others at ease with her friendly manner. A life ended much too soon; my thoughts and prayers are with all those dear to her.

Dear Maria, John, Alyssa, Ashley and Nelson - sending our deepest condolences and prayers on your tragic loss. May your lovely daughter and sister rest in peace and may you be comforted by wonderful memories 🌹

Dear John, Maria, and family

We are so shocked to hear of your tragic loss. Our condolences to all of you. Our hearts fell when we saw her name in the obituaries. I had to put my glasses on because I couldn’t believe it, my tears were pouring with sadness. We have good memories of Cynthia as a beautiful baby and I’m glad I also have pictures of her and the rest of your family when they were younger. We used to get together with my family and your family on special occasions. We will always remember your daughter Cynthia with love in our hearts.

We came to Sussex House during the pandemic. What a great relief it was to walk our dog in the neighbourhood . We loved getting to know Cynthia and Sara. We talked of our pets, our work and the mutual joy we found at Luther Village. Cynthia's passion for the arts was beautiful to see in the way she shared her work. We lift our prayers to God for on wings Cynthia goes before us. we will miss seeing her in our mutual home at Sussex House. Peace to her family and to Sara🥰🙏

I've known this incredible woman for many years. We met in our early 20's and connected immediately through our love of soccer and music. We recently had reconnected at Ashleys wedding as she was shooting it and I was dj'ing . Since we were in the same industry we were connected knew through so many of the same folks. We had a few lunches in the last few weeks and I really got to learn so much about her. I feel very grateful to have gotten those special moments in with her. Her talents are beyond incredible and her spirit is really what made her shine. She had a way of making people feel seen and celebrated. What a gift she was. Sending so much love and light to her family and I know her legacy will live on through her friends and family. 🩷

Dear John, Maria and family, we are shocked to know of your traggic loss.

Our most sincere condoloences to the family.

Os nossos mais sinceros votos de condolências a toda a família.

Cynthia, since the moment our pathes crossed it felt like we were old friends. You were genuinely the most encouraging, humble, bright light I've had the pleasure of calling a friend. Everytime we parted ways after spending time together, a chat or photographing together...I felt uplifted and confident. You were and will forever be a gift to each and everyone you encountered. You would go out of your way to make someone feel like the best and most important person - I've both witnessed and experienced this many times over. What an incredible gift and rarity. Your legacy will live on in people as they remember your kindness, enthusiasm and overall force of goodness. We'll miss you fiercel, C 💔 Much love to the family

My heart aches alongside you. I first met Cynthia at Luther Village when I was her camp counsellor. She was so open-hearted. We connected again when she took our wedding photos - again blessing us with the gift of her love, and of course her incredible skill as a photographer. Cynthia's presence in the world was a true gift, she was 'fearfully and fabulously made' and I give thanks for her courage, grace and loving care. Sending love to Sara, Maria, John and all Cynthia's beloved family and friends. ❤️

My heart aches alongside you. I first met Cynthia at Luther Village when I was her camp counsellor. She was so open-hearted. We connected again when she took our wedding photos - again blessing us with the gift of her love, and of course her incredible skill as a photographer. Cynthia's presence in the world was a true gift, she was 'fearfully and fabulously made' and I give thanks for her courage, grace and loving care. Sending love to Sara, Maria, John and all Cynthia's beloved family and friends. ❤️

Cynthia and I lived in the same building from 2014-2023. I vividly remember the first time meeting her the day I moved in. She was so friendly and welcoming. We went on many walks together with our dogs and spent countless afternoons at the pool. I will cherish the memories of times spent with her. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. 💜

On behalf of all the staff at Photo Central, I offer our sincerest condolences. Cynthia was always such a joy to have in the store, and was so very positive and supportive. She was someone we could always be open and honest with, which led to a wonderfully sincere and caring relationship. Our spirits were always lighter after one of her (and Beau's!) visits. Cynthia will truly be missed.

Dear Maria .John and family our condolences for the loss of your beautiful daughter may the. Beautiful memories you share give you some comfort .May she Rest In Peace in the kingdom of Heaven !!

Dear Maria, John and family so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. May she rest in eternal peace!

So sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy to the whole family. May the good memories you shared brings the confort that you need. May she rest in Peace. A big hug to you John and Maria

My deepest condolences to the Bettencourts... Cynthia was such a wonderful and kind human - I am a better person for knowing her. She will forever be in my thoughts and heart - I can still hear her laugh.

Love you cousin. Your pictures at the lake with my mom, dad and son are something that I will treasure forever. You really knew how to capture the most precious moments.

Sincere condolences from Barb & Joe & family. What a tragic loss 😔. 3 Masses are being offered for Cynthia at St Theresa's Church.

we were grateful for the years that Cynthia was our house sitter and dog sitter and bird sitter.

She will be dearly missed.