Cynthia Denise Williams-Hill

Cynthia Denise Williams-Hill, born on September 1, 1957, in Indianapolis, Indiana, was the cherished youngest girl of twelve children born to the late James J. Williams and Hattie Will Winston-Williams. Affectionately known as “the baby sister,” Cynthia thrived in her large family, embodying a spirit that was tough, playful, and charming. She attended Indianapolis Public Schools before completing her high school education at Shortridge High School.

A multi-talented individual, Cynthia began her professional journey in the healthcare sector, where she served as a financial counselor at Wishard Hospital and worked as a billing specialist for Nasser Smith and Pickerton Cardiology. Despite her success in administrative roles, her true passion lay in the culinary arts. Fueled by her love for cooking, she pursued studies in Culinary Arts at Ivy Tech Community College and dedicated herself to this craft, working in various restaurants and museums, and even starting her own catering business. Cynthia took great pride in her culinary skills, often boasting that her cooking was so exceptional it could make you “slap your mama.” With a playful spirit, she would challenge others, asking, “Who wants a shot at the title?” in reference to her unparalleled cooking abilities. She eventually retired as a chef from Kahn’s Catering Services, where she continued to share her love for food with family and friends.

Cynthia's greatest pride came from being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She often spoke of her two beloved children, Andre and Amber, as her utmost joy. In 2012, she married the love of her life, Michael Hill, with whom she shared 25 beautiful years. Beyond her love for her husband and children, her heart belonged to her grandchildren—Dominique, Kelsey, Kylie, Kendle, Chrislynn, and even Amber’s dog, Romey.

Known for her sense of humor and vibrant energy, Cynthia had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone she met. Her warm, magnetic personality made people feel loved and appreciated, and her laughter could brighten any room. Fearless in the face of challenges, Cynthia was passionate and resourceful, leaving a lasting impression on those around her.

Cynthia lived life on her own terms, embracing every moment with fun, love, and a sense of adventure. She will always be remembered as a wonderful woman who was fun-loving, silly, courageous, and full of sass. Her legacy of joy, warmth, and culinary delight will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

Cynthia is preceded in death by her parents, James J. Williams and Hattie Will Winston-Williams; her granddaughter, Kylie Williams; her sisters, Dorthy Allen, Geraldine Williams, and Betty Jo Williams; her brothers, Edward L. Houston and George Henry Williams; and her grandmother, Savannah Winston. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Michael S. Hill; her children, Andre D. Williams (Melinda Williams) and Amber R. Hightower (William Hightower); her stepdaughter, Natalie S. Hill; her sisters, Bernice W. Gude, Thelma W. Brown, and Joyce Ann Murphy; her brothers, J. Richard Williams, Joseph Williams, and Dennis L. Williams; her aunt, Mary Reid; her sister-in-law, Shirley Houston; and her grandchildren, Dominique J. Christie, Kelsey A. Williams, Kendle A. Williams, Chrislynn Todd, and Jerome Blue Hightower (Romey). She is also remembered by her best friend, Renee White, along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who cherish her memory.