SYNTHIA MARGARET KING

    It was on the 28th of March1943 that Synthia Margaret King came into the world as the first child of George Fitzpatrick King and Syneta Elvina King (nee Bennett) in Princes Town, Trinidad, West Indies.

    Always a diligent student, Synthia finished high school with top grades at Naparima High School in San Fernando. An uncle at the United Nations who promised financial support at New York University died suddenly after she arrived in New York. On her own and undeterred, she worked in nursing homes and restaurants while going to school part time. It took her six years, but she finished well with a degree in Chemistry and Mathematics from Howard University.

    After two years of friendship and courtship, she joined Halifax Charles King in a marriage which withstood the test of time, nearly fifty-three years.

    In addition to being a highly devoted mother who personally tutored all her children, she worked in computer software support and, for a few years, managed her husband’s surgical practice. Perhaps, she was proudest of working at a detention center in Maryland where she helped young inmates to obtain their GED diplomas. Along the way, she took evening classes and obtained a Master of Business Administration degree.

    Synthia thoroughly enjoyed doing fun things with her husband. Every two or three years, they would plan a trip to some place they had not previously visited. They loved gardening and took an interest in raising orchids. Just to do it right, Synthia got certified as a Master Gardener. She loved music and it was a treat for the family to sing hymns as she mplayed the piano or organ.

    Synthia was a generous soul who never skipped a chance to reach out with a supporting hand to younger people who needed guidance and encouragement. Learning from her mother’s example, she and Halifax opened their home to many people. She did not preach but she practiced her Christian faith in her daily living. When faced with difficult situations, she would often be heard quietly saying “God is in control.”

    After rather difficult and relentless health challenges, Synthia Margaret King went on to eternal rest with the Lord on 24 April, 2024. Her husband (Dr. Halifax C. King) will cherish her memory for ever; sons (Dr. Bola King-Rushing and Gheran King) and daughter (Dr. Rosamond S. King) will always hold their mother’s memory close to their heart. Her brothers (Angus, Andre and Alpha King) and sisters (Petronella Ayres and Marva Marcelle) as well as many other family members will not forget her.