Cynthia Diana Ricks

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF

              Cynthia Diana Gibbs Ricks

Cynthia Diana Gibbs Ricks, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and dedicated friend to many came into this world on May 9, 1959 in Chester, PA to the late Mary and Joseph Gibbs. Cynthia attended various schools in the Chester Upland School District graduating from Chester High School in 1977.

Cynthia, whom was passionately called “Cy” by her close friends, classmates and relatives, earned her cosmetology license from Wilfred Academy for Cosmetology. She quickly became legendary for her distinctive waves, pineapple waves, and French Rolls to name a few. People showed gratitude to be able to get an appointment with the talented “Cy” sometimes waiting weeks for an appointment. Cynthia inspired many hairdressers today through her passion for hair and by demonstrating the highest level of professionalism. Cynthia even taught her husband, Kevin, how to wave down the back of the hair.

Arts and crafts came so natural to Cynthia, whatever she envisioned she perfected from interior decorating to making custom baskets for various occasions especially Valentine’s Day. To name Cynthia as a prankster is an understatement and her peculiar laughing is truly unforgettable. She would laugh so hard, making you laugh with her prior to knowing what was funny and why you were laughing.

Cynthia was also known for her love of shopping and fashion, and she made sure to match every outfit with matching jewelry and a nice shoe. She loved shopping for others and gifting others with fashionable and/or sentimental gifts. Her selfless acts of kindness are what made the biggest impact on so many people.  She was the kind person you could count on no matter what time of day or night and no matter

what the situation, she always found time to lend an ear or offer support.

Cynthia was very diligent and had an admirable work ethic with the various jobs she acquired. She worked at Central Drug Pharmacy, Fair Acres and served over 21 years as a Department Manager at Boscov’s, managing several departments at a time.

Cynthia gained her wings on January 20, 2022 at home surrounded by her daughters, granddaughter and niece. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kevin “Ki Heem” Ricks, and father and mother Joseph and Mary Gibbs. She leaves to cherish her memory two devoted and dedicated daughters, with whom she was very close, Ki Shea and KaLisha Gibbs. One inseparable granddaughter, Ra’Kai Womack-Gibbs, whom she called her Best Friend. Five sisters, Arayna Mitchell, Anita Brown, Victoria Freeman (Teddy, Sr.) Roslyn Gibbs and Shannon Gibbs and two brothers, Joseph (Gwen) and Alan Gibbs. Godchildren Michael Selby, Dai’Shona Jones, and Tyler Pettiford. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends and extended family, a special niece Ranae Gibbs and one over -protective great nephew, Asaad “Buddy” Gibbs. A special friend Barry Sharp and a special friend that played a major part in caring for her, Zantina Snowden. A close cousin/friend, Pamela Smith, and a dear friend whom preceded her in death, Teresa Thomas

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