Cynthia L. Slate

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Cynthia Lavonne Slate on September 7, 2025. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, Cynthia leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and purpose that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Cynthia was a brilliant and compassionate woman with an insatiable passion for learning- especially in history, politics, and strategy. Her sharp intellect, competitive nature, and talent as a skilled chess player reflected her thoughtful and strategic approach to life.

She proudly served the State of Ohio for 38 years as an Auditor, beginning her journey after graduating from the Ohio Police Academy. In 1970, Cynthia became one of the first African American women to help integrate the Department of Administrative Services, paving the way for generations to come. She attended Holy Cross Catholic School, the first Catholic Church built in Columbus, and Bishop Hartley High School. She also attended Columbus State Community College and earned her associate degree in Accounting and Business Management from Franklin University- a proud milestone that laid the foundation for her distinguished career.

Cynthia was deeply rooted in her community and committed to lifelong learning. Cynthia also gave back to her community through leadership, serving as President of the Marion Franklin Recreation Center. She was a powerful voice for justice and change- a passionate political analyst and activist who never hesitated to speak up for what was right for the community she loved and served.

More than her professional achievements Cynthia truly loved her family. She was the proud mother of three daughters and a loving grandmother and great- grandmother. Her home was a place of love, strength, wisdom, and unwavering support. She led her family with faith, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose.

Cynthia's warmth, laughter, and fierce loyalty will be dearly missed. Her life was a shining example of resilience, leadership, and unconditional love. A die-hard Ohio State Buckeyes fan, Cynthia's game day energy was unmatched. She never missed a chance to root for her team, and her Buckeye pride was infectious.

She is preceded in death by Father Willie Slate, Mother, Oneida Cooper, Brothers, Gregory Slate, Availeo Slate, William Slate, Sister, Latitia Slate, Janice Powell, Tampa Florida. Cynthia leaves to cherish her memory, Daughters, Tonya Mayes, Carla Mayes, Tracy Mayes of Columbus, Brother, Gary Slate, Tampa Florida. Sisters, Jacqueline Smith, Antoinette, Brown, Margaret Slate, Benita (Kevin) Taylor, Gwendolyn Coles. She also leaves behind six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and a host of other relative and friends.

As we remember her remarkable life, let us honor her with the cheer she loved most.

"O-H!"- "I-O!"

Rest Peacefully, Cynthia, Your legacy lives on in every heart you touched.


Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm with a Funeral Service immediately following at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service, 1370 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205. Burial will process to Glen Rest Memorial Estate, Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

To leave a message of condolence please visit her Guest Book.