Cynthia King, Served As Democratic Town Commitee Chair

UPDATE: Cynthia King, the first African American woman to serve as chair of the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee, has passed away. She served as chair of the 90-member DTC when Bill Finch was elected mayor in 2007 prior to Mario Testa reclaiming the chairmanship in 2008. Statement from Finch:

“I am very saddened by Cynthia King’s passing. She was a dedicated town committee member of high moral character who really loved her City. She helped me immensely during my Mayoral candidacy in 2007, and I am very appreciative of her friendship and her generosity of spirit.”

Obituary from Baker-Isaac Funeral Services.

Cynthia Hope King Jenkins, age 60, departed this life on Friday, December 21, 2012 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center with her husband of 20 years Napoleon B. Jenkins at her side. She was the daughter of the late Earl and Janice Green King. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Earl G. King. Educated in the Bridgeport School System, she graduated from Central High School Class of 1970. Cynthia continued to further her education at Housatonic Community College and the University of Bridgeport where she received her Bachelor and Master’s Degree.

In her youth, Cynthia was an active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. Her Christian discipleship led her to join Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Cynthia joined Prayer Tabernacle Church of Love, under the Pastorial care of Bishop Kenneth H. Moales, Sr., where she received the honor of serving as a Deaconess. The church was renamed The Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, where the pastor is Kenneth H. Moales, Jr.

Cynthia was very politically and community oriented. She was elected the first African American Woman on the Democratic Town Committee as Chairperson. Her former employment included Dietary Aide at Bridgeport Hospital, Social Worker at Hall Neighborhood House and the City of Bridgeport. She also worked as a Home School Coordinator at Hallen School. She was currently employed by the Department of Social Services as an Eligibility Specialist.

In addition to her husband, she will be forever remembered and loved by her two daughters, Lennea Dawson McAllaster (Kiyshon), Caressa King, Orlando, FL; Step-children, April Crawford (Tremaine), MD., Napoleon Jenkins, Jr., Leona Jenkins, Ramstein, Germany, Omar Jenkins, Waynesville, MO; Sister, Stephanie K. James, New Haven, CT.; Brother, Daniel M. King, Atlanta GA; Sisters-in-law, Madeline R. King, Eva Gardner (Greg); Brothers-in-law, Haywood Jenkins (Lisa), Russell Jenkins, Raleigh, NC. Grandchildren, Jaelon, Tanaya, and Dominic; Aunt, Irma Moreland (Prince), Phoenix, AZ; Special Aunt, Alveta Monk; Special Niece, Mishonda James; Nieces, Keenisha Hairston and Michelle Roberts; Nephew, Earl King, Jr.(Tonisha); and Sistah/girl, Jackie Wright.

Celebration of Life will be on Thursday, December 27, 2012, at the Cathedral of The Holy Spirit Church, 729 Union Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06607. Viewing will be from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. with the Service starting at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be Friday, December 28, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Mountain Grove Cemetery, North Avenue, Bridgeport, CT.