Please join the funeral ceremony celebrating the life of Mrs. Cynthia Elaine Moody-Paige by clicking the link below.

Live stream service

Cynthia Elaine Moody-Paige, affectionately known as “Cynt” and “LaLa,” was born on February 17, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York. She lived a remarkable life defined by educational excellence, professional achievement, faith, perseverance, and devotion to those she loved. Cynthia began her education at Edward B. Shallow J.H.S. #227 and Eli Whitney Vocational High School in Brooklyn. 

Her lifelong passion for education led her to pursue higher learning, including studies at Brooklyn College where she graduated with her bachelors in accounting in 1981 and Pace University. From 1992 to 1997, she studied Business and Technology at Pace University, earning her bachelor’s degree in 1997. She later worked at Pace University’s School of Education as an administrator and adjunct professor until 2001. 

After relocating to the Tampa Bay area, Cynthia worked at Blake High School from 2002 to 2003 as part of an experimental Florida Virtual School program. On July 20, 2003, she began what would become a distinguished career at Erwin Technical College, educating and inspiring adult learners. While working at Erwin, Cynthia continued her own educational journey, earning a master’s degree and later a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from Argosy University. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence led her to make history as the first African American to serve as Department Head of Accounting, Business, and Cosmetology at Erwin Technical College, a position she proudly held for more than ten years. Among the many roles Cynthia cherished was serving as sponsor of the National Technical Honor Society for ten years. She also served as Night Principal at Erwin Technical College for five years. Her commitment to her students and the field of education was recognized in 2025 when she received the Ida S. Baker Educator Award. After years of dedicated service, Cynthia retired from Erwin Technical College on July 8, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and educational excellence.Cynthia was a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and a faithful member of Carmel Friendship Church. While living in New York, she was a member of Greater Mount Pleasant Church, where she sang in the choir. Her love for music also led her to become a member of the singing group “Radar.” Cynthia knew how to enjoy life. She loved sewing and cooking and possessed an undeniable passion for fashion. A true New Yorker at heart, she enjoyed spending time at the legendary Paradise Garage. Through her style, music, accomplishments, vibrant personality, and love for others, Cynthia left her own special mark wherever she went. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Steven Moody, Sr. and Rosa Lee Moody; beloved son, Tore Paige; and brother, Steven Moody, Jr. 

Cynthia leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted husband of forty years, Dane Paige; son, Christopher Philip Ellis; daughter, Wynter Rose Ellis; grandchildren, Autumn Elaine Ellis, Kyrie Tore Ellis, and Conner Jameson Ellis; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, former students, colleagues, sorority sisters, church family, and dear friends. Cynthia Elaine Moody-Paige will be remembered as an accomplished educator, trailblazer, mentor, woman of faith and style, and, above all, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, relative, educator, and friend. Her lessons, laughter, strength, accomplishments, and love will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched.