Cynthia Denise Penn

Cynthia Denise Penn (Williams)

Cynthia Denise Penn (Williams) came into this world on May 3, 1956. Born in Spartanburg, SC to Jessie Mae Williams and Prince Williams, Sr. (who preceded her in death), Cynthia was the first of six beautiful children. Also known as “Big C” Cynthia was raised in Evanston, IL where she was a graduate of Evanston Township High School and later attended business college, where she received a certificate in Medical Transcription. Cynthia held various roles throughout her career, but she was always in a position to help others. She was a receptionist for St. Francis Extended Care for 14 years, and continued in the medical field as a Medical Transcriptionist at Evanston Hospital. Later in her career she worked as a Loan Processor. She was an active member of the First Church of God Christian Life Center. Cynthia truly enjoyed working and attending church every Sunday. She used her faith in God and expertise to touch the lives of many people. Cynthia treasured the time she spent with family. At family gatherings she liked to dance, “keep it real”, solidify her advice with “ok girl!” and eat her favorite food — soul food. ​Cynthia was also known for her unique sense of style and her own personal manicures. Adored by many, Cynthia impacted the lives of everyone that she knew. She was loved for her strong family values, traditions and wisdom. After a long battle with cancer, Cynthia was called home to be with God on March 18, 2019. She leaves to cherish her memories her beloved children, Denise (Deron), Christine who cared for her the last two years of her life, Crystal (Charles her fiancé) and Harvey Penn, Jr; grandchildren, Deja and Davis; siblings, Melvin, Sammie, Prince (Althea), Kim, Lisa and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Her children would like to thank everyone who cared for their mom or contributed in any capacity.

“My mommy was a woman like no other I knew, she gave me life, nurtured me throughout life, mommy taught me how to be a woman, she dressed me, she fought for me like no one else could, she held me when I needed, she yelled at me to be ​better, she kissed and hugged me but most of all she gave me unconditional love from the start. There are no words that I can express to describe how important my mommy was to me and no matter what, her powerful influence will be with me always. Mommy I love you so much and as much as I would love to have one of our great phone calls right now, I know you are in a better place and I know those legs are moving with the Lord. You go ahead and run with God until I see you again!” -Love Always, Denise

Big c is what they called her but mommy is who I knew she used to say to me baby it's ok to cry know God and I always got you all you ever wanted was for your kids to be good and stick together so I hope u in heaven smiling knowing u got your wish! Mommy till will meet again.... -love always Christine

“Ma, I will never forget your advice, “Never think you are stuck.” You have taught me to be strong and happy because the lord blesses us all. I will miss hearing you say, “Ok Girl!”