Cynthia Phillippie

Cynthia Yankura Phillippie, age 56, of Nashville, passed peacefully at her home on Saturday May 23.

Cindy was born in Leighton Baracks Army Hospital, Wuzburg Germany to Vincent and Wally Szamier. Cindy and her three siblings were Army Brats. They remained in Germany for a couple of years before relocating to Nashville Tennesse. The family followed their father as he was transferred from Army base to Army base. Cindy and her family moved from Nashville to Fayetville North Carolina and then on to Anchorage Alaska in 1962. This is where the family believes Cindy developed her loved for ice chips.

The Vietnam War began and the family decided to move back to Nashville while her father was deployed. Cindy was growing up on Lyle Avenue and attending elementary school at Cathedral of Incarnation when her father passed away suddenly. At that time Cindy's mother Wally decided it would be best for her and the children to relocate one more time. They landed in Huntsville Alabama, where Cindy spent the rest of her childhood and early adulthood. Before graduating from J.O. Johnson high school in 1977, She gave birth to her first her child Jennifer. Cindy knew she had to work hard to make a life for her and her daughter. While raising Jennifer, she attended Drake Technical School and in 1979 graduated with a degree in Applied Technology. She was so proud of herself she bought her first car, a 1971 two door Ford Maverick. She quickly got a job with the City of Huntsville Department of Public Works. While there she held a couple of positions before getting the break she has been working so hard for. a new job at GMAC. A couple of years later Cindy was presented with an opportunity that changed her life forever. A relocation opportunity back to the city where she attended first through third grade, good ole Nashville Tennessee.

In 1987 Cindy gave birth to her second child Andrew and two years later Robert was born. Cindy loved her children dearly. She supported her children in everything they did. Cindy cheered them on in school, sports, and just for being who they were. She was there wether it was to give a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, or a friend to laugh with.

in 2000 Cindy was faced with a decision. To follow her career and relocate the family or take a chance and stay in Nashville. She decided to stay and quickly got a new position with Regions Bank. Cindy loved her new career and coworkers. She continued to work with Regions up until this year.
Cindy's life was again blessed when she became a grandmother. Cindy's love for these kids couldn't be contained. Just as she was there for her children, she was there for her grandchildren. It didn't matter they were in New Jersey, she was there to hug, kiss, and laugh with them. We all became to know Cindy as Granna. Cindy was again blessed when she fell in love again and got remarried to Howard Phillippie in 2014.

Cindy was a very outgoing, funny, loving, bubbly, and giving person. Cindy never met a stranger. She had this personality that allowed her to become instant friends with anyone she met. Her smile was contagious. She would put you in a better mood by her presence and make you smile with her heart. Cindy not only shared her heart with family and friends, she also volunteered often. She saw value in everyone and actively participated in making the world a better place. She helped others with taxes, worked in shelters, and cleaned community parks. Being with family and friends was the most important. Cindy would travel from Alabama to New Jersey to spend time with those most dear to her.

When she was not traveling to visit family she was traveling to see the country. She enjoyed camping, visiting new places, and the beach. She also enjoyed the wind in her hair as she rode on the back of Howard's Harley Davidson. Cindy's favorite places include Savannah Georgia (where she was remarried in 2014) and Long Beach Island New Jersey (the annual beach vacation with her daughter and grandchildren).
Cindy's love, courage, and grace is a blessing that touched all who knew her. You never gave up Cindy. Times got tough but you never showed it. You never let anything or anyone change who you are, showing everyone you are their favorite star. You moved through the unknown strength and grace no matter the length. Your legacy will live in everyone you touched. We love you to the moon and back, and forever and a day.