Cynthia Walters

Rev. Cynthia Walters was a woman of faith, strength, integrity, vision, and compassion whose life left an indelible mark on countless people in Jamaica, the United States, and beyond. Born in June 1934 in the parish of Clarendon, Jamaica, West Indies, to the late Edwina and George Douglas, she lived a remarkable 92 years and 3 months, faithfully serving God and others.

Rev. Cynthia served in ministry for more than 65 years, much of that time alongside her late husband, Bishop Joel E. Walters. Together, they founded and organized churches and were instrumental in the organization and leadership of the Yonkers Central Church of God in Yonkers, New York, and the founding of the Coral Springs Church of God in Coral Springs, Florida, now Living Word Christian Center. Her commitment to ministry extended beyond the church, as she helped sponsor six ministers and their families, along with other lay leaders, to come to the United States, many of whom were welcomed into her home.

A woman of many gifts, Rev. Cynthia was a skilled couturier who designed tailor-made clothing, including wedding and bridesmaid dresses. Her determination to migrate to the United States led her to formalize her skills through sewing training and successfully complete a live examination before the Board of Labor in Kingston, Jamaica. She received official certification as a fashion designer, which helped secure her visa, and she migrated to the United States in 1969.

After arriving in America, she pursued nursing and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked at St. John’s Riverside Hospital and provided private-duty nursing care before eventually retiring in Florida. She was also an accomplished entrepreneur and became the first person in the Central Yonkers Church of God to join Mary Kay, introducing women in the church and surrounding communities to opportunities for entrepreneurship and additional sources of income. Many fondly remember her traveling in her distinctive pink Mary Kay car.

In 2006, Rev. Cynthia was divinely led to begin a new work after receiving the instruction, “Go minister to my people that are hurting.” Through her obedience and love for people, Changing Lives Outreach Ministry was born and opened its doors on September 3, 2006, in Coral Springs, Florida. The ministry later relocated to Wiles Road in 2011 and continued its mission of helping, caring for, encouraging, and extending compassion to individuals and families in need. Rev. Cynthia frequently gave from her own resources and opened her heart and home to those seeking assistance, comfort, a meal, love, and support. In 2018, the ministry closed its doors, but its impact continues through the lives it touched.

Rev. Cynthia was also a world traveler who participated in numerous World Missions trips with her late husband and spiritual daughter. She traveled throughout the Far East, South America, and the Caribbean and fulfilled a lifelong dream in March 2017 when she journeyed to Israel with her spiritual daughters.

She was a prayer warrior, leader, encourager, teacher, preacher, singer, and woman of excellence. She loved children, youth, and adults and consistently reminded others of the goodness of God. Her home was a haven to many, and countless individuals embraced her as a mother because of her generosity, discipline, wisdom, and unconditional love. Rev. Cynthia leaves her loving family and friends to mourn her passing.

Rev. Cynthia's legacy continues through her family: her five biological children, Joel, Oral, Faith, Mark, and Andrea, who preceded her in death; five adopted children, Norma, Nicola, Courtney, Gary, and Shellyann; 26 grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren, her daughter-in-law Sandra, one brother and a host of nieces and nephews. Her children and spiritual daughters have continued in ministry and community leadership, carrying forward the values she modeled throughout her life.

On Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., Rev. Cynthia Walters peacefully took her final breath surrounded by those who loved her and went home to be with her Lord.

Her life was one of faith, service, courage, sacrifice, and love. She fought a good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith.

“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.” 2 Timothy 4:7–8

Visitation will be held at Church by the Glades, 400 Lakeview Dr, Coral Springs, FL 33071, US, on October 23, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at Church by the Glades, 400 Lakeview Dr, Coral Springs, FL 33071, US, on October 24, 2026, at 9:00 am.

A Committal Service will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 200 West Copans Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33064, US, on October 24, 2026, at 1:00 pm.