Cynthia Turman Knox (Lansing)

On July 24, 2019 the Lord whispered into Cynthia’s ear, “You have fought the good fight. You have finished your race. You have kept the faith. Well done my good and faithful servant. Come unto me and receive your rest.” On a quiet Wednesday afternoon surrounded by those who loved her Cynthia made her peaceful transition into her eternal resting place.

Cynthia Regina Turman Knox affectionately known as “Cyn,” was born September 12, 1961 in Montgomery, Alabama to Charlie Ben and Cleo Dillard Turman. At the age of four, her parents made the decision to relocate their family north to pursue better life opportunities. They settled in Lansing, Michigan in 1965. It was here that Cynthia lived the majority of her days. Cynthia attended both the Okemos and Lansing School Districts. She graduated from Lansing Everett High School in 1980. She later attended Lansing Community College where she became a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Growing up Cynthia’s parents raised their family in a home that taught the love of Christ. They were strong role models who demonstrated the teachings of Christ in their daily interactions with all they encountered. Her parents trained her up in the ways of the Lord and as she grew older, she did not depart from them. Through this training Cynthia was baptized at an early age at Union Missionary Baptist Church. She later joined Galilee Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Charles Tolbert. It was here at Galilee that her ministry to serve others was nurtured and blossomed. She sang in the choir but took particular joy in serving on the usher board, effectively preparing her for a life of service.

Armed with her mother’s caring spirt and the desire to make a difference, Cynthia spent many years of her life serving as a CNA. She went to great lengths to ensure she took wonderful care of all her patients. Their comfort was always the utmost importance to her. In 1998, she made the decision to change her life course. She moved to Dallas, Texas and entered the world of Telemarketing. As with most things she did in life Cynthia shined bright in this career. She had several years of success in Texas. However, her heart longed for her family back home. Following the desires of her heart she returned to Lansing and re-entered the home help profession. This was the field she spent the remainder of her days.

On March 17, 2006 Cynthia enter into Holy Matrimony with Clarence Knox, Jr. She cherished her life with her husband greatly and they shared a lot of love over their 13-year marriage. Some of their favorite pastimes included playing cards, traveling and watching movies together.

To know Cynthia was to love her. Fortified with her Father’s no-nonsense attitude you never had to question where you stood with Cynthia. Cynthia had an infectious laugh and beautiful smile that would light up any room she entered. She was always the life of the party and center of attention. She had a way that made everyone feel special and welcome in her presence. She enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking her famous macaroni and cheese, writing and bonding with her grand-pups Breslin and Brody.

Her most proud accomplishments in life came in the form of her three daughters. She poured a piece of her spirit into all three so her memory will live on long after she is gone. When you see Brandye walking and talking like her you’ll say there is Cyn. When Falynn is standing up for what she believes in and will not back down you’ll say there is Cyn. When Clenita writes a poem or smiles you’ll know there is Cyn.

Cynthia leaves to cherish her loving memory: husband, Clarence Knox, Jr.; three daughters, Brandye Nicole (Bryant), Falynn OKesha (Albert) and Clenita D; father, Charlie Ben Turman, Jr; siblings, Charlie (Dorothye) Turman, III, Kenneth Turman, Vickie Woods and Venita Turman; five grandchildren, Brianna, BriAsia, Tanaya, TaRon and Ty’King; sister-in-law, Alesia Knox; brother-In-law, Darrel Knox; special uncle, George Dillard; special friend, Debra McKinney; and a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her mother, Cleo Dillard Turman and brother, L. Julius M. Turman. Cynthia will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. Do not mourn for her because she would not want that for you. However, the next time you sit at a spades table smile and remember you knew the baddest Spades player to ever walk this Earth.