Cynthia Antoinette Smith-Williams

Cynthia Smith-Williams, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, was born on January 4, 1950, to the late Chester and Lillian Crawford of the District of Columbia. She departed this life on February 18, 2025, surrounded by loving family. She received her diploma from McKinley High School, an undergraduate degree from St. Paul’s College, Lawrenceville, VA, and graduate degrees from Virginia State University and Walden University. Cynthia joined St. George’s Episcopal Church in Washington, DC, at an early age. She later became a member of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, VA. Cynthia excelled as a student and volunteer, setting imprints on record events. While in high school, she was a Candy Striper, helping at DC hospitals. She represented the United States at the Girl Scouts of America at its New Zealand Jamboree. She presented flowers to Lady Bird Johnson at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Washington, DC. While attending St. Paul’s, Cynthia was honored as a Winant Volunteer and traveled to Great Britain to aid impoverished children. As a resolute Educational Administrator in Virgina, Cynthia was a high school guidance counselor. Excelling forward, she became a middle school assistant principal and high school principal. Her love and dedication for her staff and students made a profound impact due to her clarity of thought, devotion, integrity, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Cynthia became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. through the Richmond Alumnae Chapter. After retiring in 2012, Cynthia continued her work with children, teaching vacation Bible school at St. Philips, being a student advisor with the nonprofit GRASP, and working with the AmeriCorps National Service Program, teaching reading to children in underserved communities. Cynthia was a resolute caregiver and educator whose loving spirit will always be felt. Cynthia and her former spouse, Lee Lewis, Jr., had two children, Andre and Lee, who they adored. Although Cynthia and Lee went on to remarry, they remained in touch throughout their lives. Cynthia is also survived by a devoted sister, Yvonne; and her son-in-law, Kevin Hanger. She was preceded in death by her longtime partner, Kenneth Adkins. Cynthia leaves behind many family and friends, especially Pearl Morgan, Deneen Hampton, and Muriel “Mikki” Pleasants.

Tributes

Cynthia Antoinette Smith-Williams

January 4, 1950 - February 18, 2025