Cynthia Alexander Rattray

Cynthia Veronica Alexander was born in the parish of St. Mary, Jamaica on October 19, 1937 to Wilfred and Dorina Alexander. Known to her siblings as Sister Cynthia she attended Kingston Technical School. Subsequently she worked at the Ministry of Agriculture. She met and married Barrington Rattray and had 4 children. Cynthia was a part of the group involved in the selection of Jamaica’s National Anthem and also part of the choral group who sang at the first Independence Day celebration. She joined the Salvation Army Church where she sang with a very noteworthy trio and was a member of the choir. She later joined the Lindenhurst Methodist Church where she was a choir member.

Cynthia and family migrated to New York City in 1969. She worked for City National Bank, then worked for many years as the Personal Assistant to the Head of the United Nations Development Program - Africa Bureau. She was also part of the UNDP choral group. An independent woman, starting a new chapter in her life, she divorced and later welcomed 2nd son Christopher. Upon retirement she started a new career as a travel agent then became a flight attendant for Continental Airlines, pursuing one of her dreams. (As a matter of fact she was working on a flight when the 911 attacks occurred, but thank God was unharmed.)

Cynthia loved to sing and had a beautiful voice. She was adventurous, visiting various European countries, Mexico, Puerto Rico and many more. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, watching sports and game shows. Cynthia was an excellent cook and especially shined at Christmas by making a mean black cake, sorrel and crème de punch. She loved to entertain and enjoyed having her family around her. She was definitely a foodie. Above all she was very spiritual and taught her children to have faith in themselves and in the Lord.

Cynthia, is survived by her children Wayne, Annise, Andrea, Michelle, Christopher and grandson Steven. She also leaves behind siblings, Merrick, Barbara, Diana, Lenice, Valerie, Michael, Sandra, Courtney, plus many nieces and nephews and a host of family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Jacqueline and brothers Derrick and Delroy.

Cynthia will be greatly missed. We love her but God loves her best.

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