Cynthia Epps Daniels

Born on November 21, 1948, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to John Archie Epps and Agnes Oberia Wynn Epps, Cynthia grew up with a love of learning and creativity that shaped the beautiful life she lived. She graduated from Short Ridge High School before moving to Dallas to attend Bishop College—where, in a moment her family still cherishes, she met the love of her life, Curtis Daniels, after he simply asked to borrow a pencil. That single request became the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering companionship.

While at Bishop, Cynthia joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an organization she proudly represented throughout her life. She continued her education at Texas Woman’s University, earning a Master’s degree in Library Science, a field in which she found profound purpose.

Cynthia dedicated 43 years to the students of the Dallas Independent School District, serving as a librarian who believed wholeheartedly in the power of literacy to shape young minds. She was a former President of the Dallas Association of School Librarians and a beloved colleague to many. She guided generations of students to discover a love of reading, shared her deep passion for storytelling and Black history, and each year brought joy to her campus by creating the Texas History living museums—one of her most cherished projects. Her work was not just a career but a calling, and she made lifelong friends along the way.

Beyond her professional life, Cynthia was gifted in many ways. She loved to sing, especially in the church choir, learning parts from Tim and the late Sally Ayers and laughing with friends between songs. She was an avid seamstress, creating handmade outfits for her daughters, she found joy in cooking, crafting, and exploring new recipes. Cynthia also enjoyed shopping—whether at “the Rack,” Chico’s, Marshall’s, Home Goods, or the Maxx— perpetuating a style that was uniquely and unmistakably hers.

Cynthia loved her family with a depth that could be felt in every act of support: cheering at drill team performances, singing competitions, basketball games (always calling out “TWO, TWO!”), football games for her grandson Trey, and listening proudly as her son-in-love spoke at church. She cared deeply for her husband, standing by him and caring for him with devotion. Together, they danced, laughed, and celebrated a life built on love.

Her faith was central to her life. She served joyfully at Covenant Church, participating on the prayer team and encouraging everyone she met. Cynthia had a rare and beautiful gift for making people feel seen, valued, and deeply special. Whether through a kind word, a thoughtful note, or a spontaneous, funny song, she radiated warmth and generosity.

Cynthia’s unique spirit could be spotted in her love of zebra print, Black history, Black Santas, great food, bold fashion, and the companionship of family pets—especially Milo “Miles”. Though dogs came into the family later in life, she embraced them wholeheartedly.

Cynthia is survived by her husband, Curtis Daniels; her daughters, Erica Daniels Givens and Stephanie Daniels; her grandson, William Raymond “Trey” Givens; her son-in-love, Paul Louis Daniels II and her grand dogs Kevin and Stuart. She leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, students, and extended family whose lives were forever touched by her grace, humor, and boundless generosity.

Her legacy is one of love, learning, faith, and joy. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.