Cynthia "Cici" Carnes

Cynthia C. “Cici” Carnes, 69, of Nashville, TN, passed away February 20, 2026. She was an Interior Designer, Fine Artist, and Educator. Cynthia was a multitalented creative. She was a woman of deep Christian faith. Before moving to Nashville, Cynthia graduated with a degree in fashion design in Texas at TCU. After moving to Nashville in 1982, she began to live her dream of renovating and decorating historic homes. She worked on two different homes in the West End area of Nashville. She, also, expressed her artistic talent and knowledge by creating and managing a Fine Art photography gallery wall at the family Haagen-Dazs ice cream store on West End Ave. where she exhibited the work of many fine photographers from the Nashville area. While her children were young Cynthia worked during the summers at Watkin’s College of Art and Design. Later, Cynthia decided to further her education and earned a degree in Interior Design from Watkins College of Art and Design. After graduating she worked as an interior designer intern at Earl Swensson Associates architectural firm. Cynthia continued to work independently, as well as, with other designers. Cynthia also worked as a Fine Arts corporate sales consultant at Norman Worrell Associates, Inc. Not only has learning been a large part of Cynthia’s life, so has teaching. She was licensed to teach K-12. She has taught in public, private, and Christian schools. She taught all grade levels, as well as Art. After seeing a need in Nashville schools, Cynthia earned a Masters Degree in Education from Trevecca Nazarene University. She taught English as a Second Language in the Nashville public school system. She is survived by her two daughters, Erin (KJ) Schumacher and Cristin Carnes; three grandchildren, Isaac Rhodes, Amelia Schumacher, James Schumacher; grand dog, Koah Carnes and her grandkitty, Panthea Carnes; two nephews, Sean Drakeford and Ian Drakeford. A Natural Burial will be held 12:00 pm, Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Larkspur Conservation at Taylor Hollow. What to expect at a natural burial: Dress for an outdoor hike and wear appropriate shoes. Use the restroom before you arrive, there is no public toilet or running water. Carpool to Larkspur - parking is limited. Plan to arrive 15 minutes ahead of time. Family and friends will be welcomed at the trailhead by Larkspur staff and volunteers. Her body will be in place at the graveside prior to the arrival of family and friends. Family and friends will hike up the hill into the nature preserve for the burial ceremony. Words are shared as her body is placed to rest with nature. With guidance the family and friends shovel soil into the grave until it is closed. Hike away from the graveside and return to your vehicle or explore the preserve. Leave no trash behind. Cut flowers are welcome.

Cynthia "Cici" Carnes

March 17, 1956 - February 20, 2026