Cynthia Ann Tyler (Cindy), born on January 11, 1960, in Staten Island, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved daughter of Richard James Birch and Betty Lou Birch-Clark, and the cherished sister of Richard James Birch, Jr.
Cindy’s early life was shaped by adventure and resilience, as her family relocated frequently due to her father’s career in the Coast Guard. Following the sudden loss of her father in 1967, Cindy, her mother, and her brother returned to New Jersey, where they settled in Long Branch. In 1978 she graduated from Long Branch High School and began attending Monmouth College.
Later that same year, Cindy married Anibal Rivera, with whom she shared three children who were truly the center of her world. Although their marriage eventually ended, they remained friends and devoted co-parents.
In 2009, Cindy found love again when she married her husband, Kelvin Tyler. Together, they embraced a beautiful blended family. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection grounded in their shared faith in Jehovah. They found joy in music, cooking, wholesome, thoughtfully prepared meals, and exploring new experiences, forming a bond that was both steady and meaningful.
Cindy spent 31 years with the United States Postal Service, earning a reputation for her strong work ethic and the pride she brought to her role. Upon retiring from a long and fulfilling career, she left behind the respect and admiration of those who had the pleasure of working alongside her.
Outside of her career, Cindy found joy in the simple and meaningful things she loved like cooking, organizing, gardening, and bringing her many creative ideas to life. She especially enjoyed what she called “spooling,” her special way of sharing ideas, dreaming up projects, and excitedly talking through all the possibilities. It was one of the many ways her creativity, warmth, and vibrant spirit shined through and brought joy to those around her.
Cindy had a true gift in the kitchen, one that began to shine as early as eight years old. She had an incredible ability to turn even the simplest ingredients into something special, creating meals that were not only delicious, but filled with love. Cooking was part of her love language, and she shared that gift generously with her children, passing down both her skills and her passion. She loved exploring different cuisines and took pride in every dish she made—especially her famous deviled eggs, which remain unforgettable to all who had the pleasure of enjoying them.
Cindy’s gentle voice, kind heart, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the blessing of knowing her. She had a beautiful way of listening without judgment, making others feel seen, heard, and truly cared for. Her love for her family was unwavering and unconditional, something she showed in both life’s biggest moments and its quiet, everyday ones. Her laughter was warm and contagious, and her beautiful blue eyes sparkled with kindness, love, and a joy that could light up any room. Cindy cherished her children with all her heart and took deep pride in the people they became, celebrating their spirits and accomplishments as if they were her own greatest joys.
Cynthia is predeceased by her husband, Kelvin G. Tyler; her father, Richard James Birch; and her brother, Richard James Birch, Jr. She is survived by her mother, Betty Lou Birch-Clark; her three children, Jesenia L. Rivera, Anibal N. Rivera (Janet), and Jonathan L. Rivera; her stepchildren, Rita Tyler, Ashley Tyler, Alyce Tyler, Kelvin Tyler Jr., Alexis Tyler, and Lisa Seals; her niece, Natasha Portera (Frank); her beloved grandchildren, Kadin, Samantha, Makayla, Addison, Hailey, Elijah, Jaiden, Anthony, Joniyah, Tyler, Aaliyah, Noah, Olivia, Noelle, and Calysta; her grand-niece, Sofia; and her fur-babies Paco, Nala & Jazzy. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by her love and who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
Cynthia’s legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family will live on in all who knew her. We are eternally grateful to God for blessing us with such a loving, compassionate, and strong mother, grandmother, and friend. May she rest in peace.
