Cynthia "Cindy" Gold Ballard

Cynthia “Cindy” Gold Ballard, 69, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas, surrounded by her family. Cindy was born on June 20, 1956, in Houston, Texas, to Clara and Robert Gold. She was the eldest daughter of four children in a loving and close-knit family. She graduated from Bellaire High School and then the University of Texas at Austin. After college, she met the love of her life, David Ballard, and the two shared 44 years of marriage, building a life centered on family and devoted to raising their daughter, Michel. Cindy built a trailblazing career in financial services as an executive at PULSE, one of the nation’s earliest ATM networks. As a founding employee, she played a key role in the company’s growth and success, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President of Communications and Marketing and Secretary of the Board. Over her 30-year tenure, she earned respect for her leadership, hard work and integrity. In retirement, Cindy and David enjoyed spending summers in Maine, walking the local beaches and exploring the coastal towns. They also cherished time at their home in Wilmette, Illinois, where they could be close to Michel, son-in-law, Will, and grandson, Jack. Jack and his “Lulu” loved walking the beaches of Chicago’s North Shore, searching for shells, rocks, and sea glass, or sharing their favorite treat, mint chocolate chip ice cream. Cindy was a sports fan who closely followed the Houston Astros and could often be found listening to sports talk radio. She also dedicated her time to supporting charities and volunteering, including with Dress for Success Houston, where she helped women navigate career transitions with confidence and dignity. Cindy is preceded in death by her parents, Clara and Robert Gold. She is survived by her husband, David; her daughter, Michel, and son-in-law, Will; and her grandson, Jack, who brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Yisroel and Zehava Gold; her sister, Julie Gold; and her sister and brother-in-law, Leslie and Aaron Roffwarg; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on April 10, 2026, at Emanu El Memorial Park, 8341 Bissonnet Street, Houston, Texas 77074. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cindy’s memory to Alexander Jewish Family Service (https://www.alexanderjfs.org/donate) or Houston Food Bank (https://www.houstonfoodbank.org/ways-to-give/give-funds/).

Cynthia "Cindy" Gold Ballard

June 20, 1956 - April 8, 2026