Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks

June 25, 1957 - September 4, 2021

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Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest

6710 White Horse Road

Greenville, SC 29611

864-294-6415 |

Friday 9/10, 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest Chapel

6710 White Horse Road

Greenville, SC 29611

(864) 294-6415 |

Friday 9/10, 4:30 pm

Live Stream

Woodlawn Memorial Park

1 Pine Knoll Dr.

Greenville, SC 29609

Saturday 9/11, 1:00 pm

Cynthia Willimon Fricks (Cindy), 64, daughter of the late Woodrow Wilson Willimon and Hattie Bell Simms Willimon, was born on June 25, 1957 into one of the first families of Berea in Greenville, SC. She passed unexpectedly on September 4, 2021.

A 1974 graduate of Berea High School, Cindy graduated from Winthrop College in 1978 and earned her Masters Degree plus 30 hours at Furman University. She was a National Board Certified Teacher. Education was her passion. Cindy touched hundreds of lives through her storied 40 plus year teaching career at Crosswell Elementary and Armstrong Elementary.

In addition to her role as a beloved teacher, mother, wife, and friend, Cindy was a published author, Hamricks model, and avid deer hunter.

Cindy will be remembered most for her sense of humor, positive spirit, generosity, and the sparkle in her eyes. She had the rare talent to lift people up and make them smile. She will be missed.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Drew Fricks (Pug) and their two children, Andrew Fricks (Drew) and Katie Fricks. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara Willimon Witt and Dick Witt of Chapel Hill, NC as well as many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. She loved them all.

A gathering of friends will be held Friday, September 10, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. until 4:15 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest, with the funeral service following at 4:30 p.m. in the Northwest Chapel. The burial will be held Saturday, September 11 at 1:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

Family and friends who are unable to attend the service can view the Live Stream by clicking on the “Watch Livestream” button located on the main obituary page.

Friends are encouraged to leave condolence messages for the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” on the main obituary page.

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest

6710 White Horse Road

Greenville, SC 29611

864-294-6415 | Map

Friday 9/10, 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest Chapel

6710 White Horse Road

Greenville, SC 29611

(864) 294-6415 | Map

Friday 9/10, 4:30 pm

Live Stream

Woodlawn Memorial Park

1 Pine Knoll Dr.

Greenville, SC 29609

Map

Saturday 9/11, 1:00 pm

Tribute Video

See Condolences

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Cindy. We knew Cindy from church and school (my twin sister and I were a year ahead of her). Although we hadn’t been in touch with her for years, Cindy made a special point of reaching out to us when we lost our brother three years ago. It meant a great deal to me. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

To Drew and the Family we are so,so sorry to learn of the passing of Cindy.We did not learn about it until today.Sept.24.We will pray for you all in your time of bereavement.God please ease the pain that has been put on this Family.She will be sorely missed.With love from Kelly and Roger Morris.

I taught with Cindy at Crosswell and she taught my oldest son at the old Crosswell School when she was Miss Willimon. I have fond memories of her standing on the porch of "the white house" waving at me when I dropped off and picked up my son. Katie, Andrew, and Pug I am so sorry for your loss and you are in my prayers.

Pug, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

I watched the Livestream of the service yesterday and a very kind and eloquent person said he had received many teaching apparatuses from Aunt Cindy when he started teaching in her same school...she was a helper and a builder of thoughts. He said (in some manner) that she asked him once to borrow back a certain globe "which had a certain place on it" that she she needed to use to teach her class on a day...I laughed so hard!!!!! I could hear her and see her bowing down slightly with her body because she would do that to me also. "Now Melinda, I think you have this....or that...or a certain knowledge of...". Thank you all for loving her and to my family, I love you. Thank you.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

We were deeply saddened by the news of Cindy’s tragic death. She was a lovely, sweet friend. Please know our love and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless and comfort you today and in the days to come.

Pug, I’m so sorry for your loss. I look at the pictures posted of her and as soon as I saw the picture of her with the bandana on all these memories came in to play. She was the funnest person of all the girl’s at Berea High. I pray for you and all your family and I know without a doubt she’s watching over us because that’s her way…to watch over love ones!

I never thought i would be saying this so soon first i just want to thank the man above god for everything without him i would of never met Mrs.Fricks. I only thank him because she is an amazing person and can bring joy to any life. I will always stay strong for her because when i was always down she use to be my backbone. I just pray that everyone keep her husband and family safe because i know it's going to hit them hard.

My prayers are with the family of a beautiful, wonderful woman. May God comfort you during this painful time.

Such a happy person! She had a smile for everyone. Prayers are going out to all of her family and friends.

Pug, Drew, and Katie, Please accept my deepest sympathies in your recent loss! I have known Cindy since second grade, and we shared alot of wonderful times together! Although it's been twenty years since I last saw her, I too feel a huge since of loss in her passing! She was a dear friend! Your family is and will continue to be in my prayers! God bless you!

My dad always talked about his two favorite cousins, Hattiebell was one that I remember and I have met her and Cindy and Barbara a few times in my younger years. I wished we had been closer growing up. So glad that after years had gone by you had a family tree assignment in a class that my young niece was in I help he gather info for it and you told my sister that we were Related. You taught both of my nieces and then my grandsons at Armstrong were hoping to have her for their teacher but this year she wasn’t going to teach 4th grade Cody was so Disappointed but he said he could still see her. She was a Wonderful loving teacher the kids really love her. Glad that we are related. Loved seeing her post the views from her home and got to know her family by her comments. Prayer for her husband and her family.

In memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks, Sonja Girardeau Nelson lit a candle

Have soo many memories of Cindy in high school and Pug...and also choir tour and church camp. Such a beautiful person with a smile all the time!!! Praying for Pug and family...

In memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks, Christy Cutshall (Jackson) lit a candle

I'm so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful person. I have and will continue to lift y'all up in prayer.

I was truly saddened to hear of Cindy’s passing. We taught together for many years at Crosswell. She was such a dedicated teacher and touched so many lives; students and colleagues alike. Please know that I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength and peace during this difficult time.

I'm so sorry for the loss of Cindy Willimon Fricks. She will be missed. I will never forget the night my mama passed away she stayed with me at the nursing home till I left and came back home. ? I'm so sorry. CONDOLENCES to her husband and children. Prayers for all family and friends.

Cindy was a delightful person! I taught next to her at Armstrong Elementary before I retired. You captured her personality so well in her obituary. May God give strength and peace to all the family and friends during this difficult time.

Katie, Andrew, and Pug, I'm so saddened to hear the news. She was always so welcoming and kind to me. I'll never forget her unique sense of humor and contagious smile. My heart breaks for you all.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Prayers for your strength to get thru these trying times.

Pug and family, Words seem so inadequate -- just know that I'm thinking of you and praying that God will bring you comfort and peace in this very sad time.

Pug, Andrew & Katie, my heart hurts for you in the loss of your beautiful wife and mom. She was loved by many and we will never ever forget her. She was one amazing lady. May God give you strength and Peace in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. You will be in my prayers always and I know that you have the most beautiful Guardian Angel that is watching over you and loving you all. God Bless you!! Rest in Peace sweet Cindy!!

My son was Ms Fricks' student for 3 short weeks this year after Mr Fricks decided to come out of retirement to help a fellow teacher who is expecting a newborn baby. However, she was very involved with him and I was so sad to hear the news. She will be sorely missed. I dedicated a song "Amazing Grace" in her memory and I hope nothing but peace for the family in knowing that she doesn't have to suffer anymore.

I have been so truly blessed and honored knowing Cindy this year as her hair stylist and friend! We had just spent time together on Tuesday before the accident on Saturday. Though I have never had the pleasure of meeting Pug and children, I feel as if I have because of the stories Cindy shared about family. Please know you are and will be in my deepest thoughts and prayers. There are people you meet in life you feel you’ve known forever. Though it has been a short span of time, the laughter and friendship we shared will last in my heart forever. With Deepest Sympathy Kathy Trotter Webb

Pug, Andrew, and Katie, My heart breaks for you guys. Cindy was a great cousin, and she brought joy to so many people. I will always remember and enjoy her jokes and delicious dishes she would bring to family gatherings. Let the memories you have fill your mind, warm your hearts, and guide you through this difficult time. Love you guys, Andy Rouby

In memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks, Sylvia Taylor lit a candle

Although Cindy and I attended the same high school, we didn't know each other there. We became Facebook friends some years ago, and her effervescent and humorous personality brightly shined! Oh, how I related to her pictures of cleaning out her classroom as she retired one year behind me....she had some true funnies to describe. My heart aches for her family; there are no words. Fly darling...

Katie, your friends at Fortis offer our deepest condolences to you, your dad & your brother. We love you. ❤️

In memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks, Ginger Blackwell Cox lit a candle

Drew, as I knew you at Michelin, and to you children and families, We are so terribly sorry for your great loss. Cindy's fun and laughter will always bring a smile, or a chuckle, to every heart she touched. Our continued prayers for all of you. Frank and Claudia Halstead

Cindy leaves a big hole in the hearts of so many. Her friends, colleagues, and in the lives of all the children she touched in her chosen profession, teaching. Her loss will be especially difficult for her family. I pray God will put His arms around all who feel the loss of this special lady, and these arms shall lift us up and carry us. That He will provide guidance and comfort through these painful days, and I ask that He provide His Peace, which surpasses all understanding. I also pray that many other teachers will stand in the gap for our children, not only providing an education to them, but also warmth, praise, kindness and love. RIP Cindy. You are loved and will be missed.

Pug, Katie & Andrew, Belinda and I share Cindy's loss and pray for your comfort. We are blessed for having known Cindy for the wonderful person that she is. Life is fleeting, love and take care of one another. Our prayers to you all.

In memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Willimon Fricks, Kathy Brooks lit a candle

Mrs Frick's was my teacher at crosswell 36 years ago. She was an awesome teacher. My prayers go out to her family.

Drew My heart brakes for you ‘I will keep you and the children in our prayers if there is ever anything I can do for you just let me know God Bless andStrengthen you RJ and Elaine McNeill

Pug and Family, Words cannot even begin to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences for you and your family. Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they have shared and the love they brought into our lives. We pray that God's peace that passes all understanding will surround us in the coming days. And the loving memories of Cindy will forever remain in our hearts.

Pug, Drew and Katie. Know that you have a special angel watching over each of you. She is truly missed but never to be forgotten. We love you

Pug & Family, We were so Sorry to hear about Cindy, our thoughts and Prayers are with you. God Bless Steve & Sheila Kelley

Drew and family: We are so very sorry for your loss. There is a hole left with Cindy's passing. I remember how funny she was when she told stories esp how she hid flat on the bed, under the covers and jumped up and scared Drew(Pug). We always think of her when Robert bakes his favorite cake from a recipe Cindy gave him.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Mrs. Fricks was a dedicated coworker at Crosswell Elem and a great teacher to my son. The smile she had would light up the world. My prayers to her husband,son and daughter that God comfort you during this time.

Cindy Fricks was a true gem. She always did things with grace, respect, and pride. I will surely miss her sweet smile, joy and laughter in the hallways and classroom at Armstrong Elementary. She introduced me to my first Wine Cake. After 2 years of begging her for the recipe and making it for me whenever I asked, she finally gave me her mother's recipe....Gone but never forgotten. Cindy Fricks - I LOVE YOU! To her sweet family - Your Armstrong Family will be right here for whatever you need. You should be proud of the legacy that your mom and wife left, She touched the hearts of both children and adults alike. Rest in Heaven Cindy!

So sorry gone way to soon - you will be greatly missed.

I have fond memories of teaching with Cindy at Crosswell Elementary, and her smile and passion for teaching! I was also honored to teach her two wonderful children, Katie and Andrew. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this very difficult time.

Pug, Andrew and Katie, Words can not express how broken hearted I am. Cindy was on my team at Crosswell. I will cherish all the happy memories. You remain in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time Mecia Hartis

Altho I haven't seen Pug or Cindy since shortly after High School, I always remember that gorgeous smile. That has stuck with me for all these years. I am truly sorry at her passing.

I am so sorry to hear of Cindy’s passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days ahead. God bless, Michael Fleming

Cindy and Pug’s neighbors here at Bald Rock are heartbroken at this loss. Cindy was always upbeat and friendly, but also ready to lend a hand, following up with a concerned phone call, remembering details that showed she really listened and understood. Her sense of humor kept us all laughing at any gathering. I am so sad for Pug, Andrew, Katie, the family and this huge loss. We grieve with you❤️

I had the pleasure of having Mrs. Fricks as my 2nd grade teacher at Crosswell Elementary. She was always so patient and so kind. The world has lost a good mentor and an amazing soul. May she Rest in Peace and my deepest condolences to her family.

In memory of Cynthia W Fricks, Billy and Jo Ann Davis lit a candle

I am so sorry for you loss,she was an amazing teacher and a great story teller,when she told a story she brought it to life,it's been many years since I had her for a teacher,but the memories will forever remain in my heart,I will be praying for all of you.

Rest In Peace Cindy. You will be missed. We love you.

Dear Mrs. Fricks, I remember vividly standing in the hall, looking up at you, and you instructing me that kindness was more important than the right answer. I remember you calling my mom and telling her that you just had a feeling I needed special testing… You connected her with your professor and my life was changed. You helped me discover my dyslexia and then you tutored me after school for years helping me decode my world. You exclaimed every time I visited and listened to my stories of growth and growing up. When I became a teacher, you wrote me messages of encouragement. You donated to my classroom and I donated to yours. You can count the number of seeds in an apple but you can’t count the number of apples in a seed. You can count the number of students you have taught (and it is so many) but you can’t count the number of students you have touched and influenced through all of us who have been in your class. I am forever grateful to have been in your classroom 33 years ago. I am so saddened today.

I got to know Cindy when I worked at Crosswell Elementary School. She was precious and always made me laugh. I was blessed to have gotten to know her!

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.