Cynthia Ringley Hintze, 72, died in her home in Richmond on Tuesday, Feb. 24, after a courageous battle with cancer. 

Cynthia was born in Bristol, Tenn., in 1954, a distinction of which she was quite proud ‒ a true Tennessean. Growing up she enjoyed her close-knit neighborhood where she graduated from Bristol Tennessee High School in 1972.  Emory and Henry College is where she met her husband of nearly 30 years, Steve Hintze, graduating and marrying in 1976.  While at Emory and Henry, she was Sweet Heart of Theta Chi Epsilon Fraternity and Homecoming Queen.

Cynthia and Steve moved often for his career, eventually settling in Lexington where she worked for Washington and LeeUniversity for 29 years.  She was heavily involved in her children’s schools and community, including Lexington Presbyterian Church, Rockbridge Christmas Baskets, United Way and Habitat for Humanity, among other organizations.   

Cynthia is survived by her children, Brandon (Brian) Hintze of Shrewsbury, Pa., and Emily (Scott) Erpelding of Richmond; granddaughters Madison and Britton Erpelding; sister Carol Kercheval; brother Edward (Sara) Ringley and sister-in-law Laura (Dennis) Daugherty, as well as multiple cousins, nieces and nephews.  Cynthia was preceded in death by her husband Steve Hintze, parents Bill and Florence Ringley and brother-in-law Bill Kercheval. In addition to family and countless friends, Cynthia and her family hold dear her oncologist, Dr. Steffanie Owens, and all of the caregivers at Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute, as well as her support system at First Presbyterian Church.

Of all of the relationships above, it is the role of “Grammy” that was the most important, the most impactful, the most rewarding - and the one that motivated her move to Richmond in 2021 where she was heavily involved with her granddaughters.  A proud Southerner and devoted Christian, she loved collecting angels at Christmastime and pineapples throughout the year.  She cherished friendships, including travel such as an annual trip to Charleston, S.C., with the “Beach Babes”. 

A memorial service will be conducted on Thursday, March 5, at 2 p.m. at Lexington Presbyterian Church by the Rev. William Klein.  Reception shall follow in the church.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to "Cancer Dancer" (ovarian cancer research) at www.ocancerdancer.org 

In closing, please remember to live a pineapple life, just like Cynthia … be sweet on the inside, stand tall and wear a crown.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.