Cynthia Merritt Mangum

Cindy lived in Byram, MS for over 30 years.  She was a member of Cornerstone Church in Jackson, MS and then attended We Are One Church in Brandon, MS.  Cindy was a beautiful woman who is loved by those who knew her.  She is missed and will always be cherished. 

Cindy was born in Jackson, MS on January 4, 1962, to Harvey and Marinelle Merritt.  She spent her childhood on Meadow Forest Drive in Jackson, MS and attended schools in the area.  Cindy was known for her love for children even as a child herself.  Mrs. “Tinkerbell”, Cindy’s mom, shared that she participated in the nursery at Epworth United Methodist Church as soon as she was “old enough”.

After graduation from Wingfield High School, she continued her education at Hinds Junior College where she received an Associate’s Degree in Childhood Education.  The answer to one of Cindy’s prayers occurred when she opened Christian Love Preschool. She was able to share her faith and strong commitment for the love of Jesus with all.  Cindy loved the little children in her life as though they were her own. 

An avid fan of the Mississippi State Bulldogs, you could find her on game days ringing her cowbell and cheering on her Bulldogs with her puppy Precious in her lap.  Precious was always dressed to impress and was deeply loved by Cindy.

Cindy was married to Bill Mangum.  They shared many happy times.  Cindy’s strong commitment to her family was evident in her enjoyment during family gatherings.  She looked forward to the planning, preparing, and cooking for the kids and her precious grandchildren who called her “Grammy”.  Cindy was committed to her grandchildren, even homeschooling several of them.  Her favorite times with them included pool time with games during the summer months, as she cherished their smiles and laughter.

Cindy’s faith in Jesus was evident through her work with children throughout her personal life.  To her, Jesus was the answer to all of life’s questions.  Her family and her friends can be comforted to know she is worshipping and dancing in her eternal home in Heaven. 

Cindy is preceded in death by her brother, William Harvey “Billy” Merritt, Jr. 

She is survived by her husband, William Claude “Bill” Mangum; her parents, Harvey and Marinelle “Tinkerbell” Merritt; her children, Anthony, Michael, Natasha, and Jason; her 9 grandchildren, Aubrey, Brody, Kellan, De’Vonta, De’Andre, Brianna, Wesley, Isaiah, and Toni.

At the request of Cindy’s family, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 815 Market Street, Galveston, TX 77550-2725 or to the charity of your choice.