Cynthia White

Cynthia White was born on May 8, 1946, and peacefully transitioned on January 13, 2026. She lived a life marked by service, curiosity, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family and history.

Cynthia was a devoted and loving mother to her cherished daughter, Cheryl, who was the pride and joy of her life. She was a beloved sister to Syliva Deavens and Michelle Deavens, and a loving sister to Lonnie Deavens and his wife, Alicia Deavens. Cynthia also held a special place in her heart for her neices and nephew: Rickey Branscomb (son of Syvia), and nieces Chole and Krysten Deavens(daughters of Lonnie and Alicia).

She was preceded in death by her father, Sam White; her mother, Louise White Deavens; her stepfather, Saul Deavens; her brother, Carl Deavens; and her dear and longtime best friend, Mary Simmons, Whose friendship remained close in spirit even after her passing.

Cynthia proudly served in the United States Army, demonstrating her strength and dedication to her country. She was honorably discharged to devote herself to raising her daughter, one of the most meangingful decisions of her life. Following her military service, Cynthia built a long and respected career with the United States Postal Service, from which she retired after years of faithful service.

A passionate traveler, Cynthia loved exploring the world. Her favorite destinations included Brazil, Africa (which she visited twice), Paris and Mexico. Each journey refleceted her curiosity, appreciation for culture, and love of learning.

Later in life, Cynthia achieved what she considered her greasted accomplishment: her extensive genealogical research of the Vance-Adams-White family line. This work culminated in the completion of the Vance Family Ancestry Book in 2025. She worked closely with her genealogy grew MAAGI, and took great pride in uncovering family truths, restoring forgotten names and preserving legacy for generations to come.

Cynthia often shared that her genealogy journey truly began in South Carolina, where she first uncovered significant ancestral history. In accordance with her wishes, her remains will be spread there-returning her to the place where her deepest discoveries and connestions to family history began.

In her later years, Cynthia found great joy in reconnecting with friends from her time living on Bernard Street in Mill Creek Valley. These reconnections stirred treasured memories, particularly her renewed friendship with, conversations reminiscing about life on Bernard Street-family, neighbors, laughter, and shared experiences-brought Cynthia comfort, reflection, and joy.

She is loving lt remembered by her close friends Coralie, Sadie Mae, and Tootie, whose friendship enriched her life through laughter, loyalty and shared memories.

Cynthia will be remembered for her strength, intellectual curiosity,devotion to family, love of travel, and her unwavering determination to leave something meaningful behind. Her legacy lives on through the stories she preserved, the bonds she nurtured, and the family history she so lovingly restored.