Cynthia Barclay

Rev. Cynthia White Barclay, who served as chaplain for Transylvania County Hospice prior to her retirement, made her transition to her new life March 19, 2019. She was 72.

Cynthia had unique gifts as a chaplain, professional substance abuse counselor, rehabilitation counselor and interfaith minister. A deep spiritual seeker, she lived a life of caring. Serving as a hospice chaplain was one of her greatest joys.

She used her gifts to mentor hundreds from Wisconsin to North Carolina and also within her women’s groups. Many were uplifted by her presence. She often said go for the heart connection and share love unconditionally.

Raised in Ridgewood, New Jersey, the daughter of Ralph and Georgia White, Cynthia graduated from Ridgewood High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Baldwin-Wallace College and a master’s in rehabilitation counseling from East Carolina University.

Cynthia is survived by her husband of 50 years, Rev. Morgan Barclay, and daughter Erin Barclay Gwyn (Rob) and son Garrett Andrew Barclay. She felt her most important role was that of mother.

Cynthia embraced her role as matriarch. She is survived by grandchildren Ethan and Joshua Gwyn and Sabra Barclay, sister Constance Foss, and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Cynthia enjoyed gardening and served as president of the Transylvania County Master Gardeners. She loved to sing and did so occasionally with local church and community groups.

A celebration of life service will be held in summer 2019.

Memorial contributions may be made to Care Partners Hospice of Transylvania County, 1266 Asheville Highway, Brevard, NC, 28712, or Unity of the Blue Ridge, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills River, NC 28759.