Cynthia Denise Heflin

First Lady Cynthia Denise Heflin, affectionately known as “Rabbit,” was born on November 16, 1959, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Martha Burt Ellis and Willie Lee Jones Sr. From an early age, she was known for her warm spirit, strong faith, and unwavering love for her family and community.

She accepted Christ at a young age and remained devoted to her faith throughout her life. As a dedicated missionary, Cynthia served in many capacities at True Pentecostal Temple of God, always willing to lend a helping hand, share words of encouragement, and spread the love of God to those around her. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and her commitment to ministry left a lasting impact on her church family.

Cynthia received her education in Marion County and graduated from Vanguard High School in 1977. During her school years, she was active in various sports, showcasing a competitive spirit and determination that carried over into every aspect of her life. She later pursued a career working in various manufacturing facilities, where she was admired for her strong work ethic and dedication. However, she was perhaps best known for her incredible sweet potato pies, affectionately called "Cindy’s Pies." Her baking skills became a cherished part of family gatherings and community celebrations, bringing joy to all who had the pleasure of tasting them.

Cynthia was blessed with a loving and devoted husband, Bishop John Heflin Jr., and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. She was a proud and devoted mother to her children: Keith D. Townsend Jr., Niatikqua "Nikki" Burt, Tinikqua "Teenah" Burt, Charkia "CK" Burt Brown (Bryan), Kameshia "Pap" Townsend, and Quameshia "Doozey" Townsend. She also embraced and cherished her bonus children, John Heflin III, Jenay Heflin, and Jentell Heflin.

Cynthia’s love extended to her siblings: James Burt, Larry Jones (Tonya), Michael Ellis (Toni), Juliet Kirby (Alford), Renada Ellis, Winona Youmans (Victor), and Jewel Jones (Knisha), as well as her sister-in-law, Lakay Jones. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Martha Burt Ellis, and her brother, Willie Lee Jones.

Her legacy lives on through her seventeen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. She also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, special friends, and her beloved True Pentecostal Temple of God church family.

On March 7, 2025, Cynthia entered into the Master’s Joy, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Wake services for Mrs. Cynthia D. Heflin will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Tabernacle of Deliverance Outreach Ministries, 1120 W Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34475.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at House of God Keith Dominion, 2830 NW 27th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475.

Per Family's Request, Please No pictures or videos.

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