I have so many lovely memories of Cynthia. All the more modern hymns that she taught the congregation in Downey Ave. Church: "Morning Has Broken", is one example. Cynthia was such a big help to me when I was taking the Girl Scouts on a camping trip, and didn't know what I was doing. I think two of her daughters and one or two of mine were part of the group...to which I had to bring a five year old little brother! Over the years we had lots of parties and laughs, as well as lengthy political and social discussions. She was such a gracious lady who will be missed so much by her family and friends.
Pat Nottingham
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I once joined the McCraes as a French foreign exchange student. It would take many pages to express how deeply they changed the course of my life and how much they added to it.
It didnt take long for me to feel a full fledged member of an exceptional and loving family., It was back in 1972. Fifty-two years later our ties had lost none of their depth and - from far away Brittany - I am grieving the loss of Cynthia, my American mom.
I will be forever grateful .
Mike PHILIPPO
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Bruce and Betsy, what a remarkable woman! Blessings to you all as you grieve and at the same time celebrate a life so well lived. Nancy and Lloyd
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In my life, Cynthia stands out as an angel among us. My daughter, Natalie went to preschool and blossomed as a result of Cynthia‘s tender, loving leadership. Cynthia was an important part of my life while I lived in Indianapolis and I am grateful for her life. My prayers are for the family’s comfort as you grieve her passing. Sending my love to you!
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My heart breaks for your family. I’m so glad Cynthia joined Central Christian so I could get to know this lovely woman. Her smile and warm hugs will always be remembered. Praying for all of the McCrae clan and her wider circle of friends.
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One July bored July day a couple of teenagers got the idea to make costumes out of whatever they could find and go Trick-or-treating as though it was October. Mrs. McCrae was the only person who not only didn’t slam the door in disgust but laughed at our cheek and gave us delicious fresh cherries she picked in Michigan. She was generous in every sense. Happy Trails to you Mrs. McCrae!
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Dear Linda, so very sorry for your loss. From reading about her she lived a very full and blessed life.
Peace be with you and your family.
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As one of the "Explorers" in Cynthia and Ian's Downey Avenue Christian Church class, I am grateful for the love and embrace of this remarkable woman. Personally, I benefited from the welcome and reception I encountered when I first moved to Indy as a single mom. But her impact was so much deeper and wider.
As Disciples congregations have declined and even closed, Downey Avenue still serves in Irvington -- despite the Disciples HQ moving out of the neighborhood many years ago. I credit the leader development that Cynthia and Ian provided to the young adults in our class... many of whom now serve as elders and other officers of that congregation.
Cynthia taught by example how to be welcoming and genuinely hospitable. Her family continues her legacy as some of the kindest, most generous people one could hope to know. Cynthia never underestimated the value of any of God's gifts. Her frugality was as legendary as her generosity. Thank you, Cynthia, for your exemplary life. We are better for having known you.
1
❤️ Just reading Cynthia’s obit and feeling joy for the goodness Ian and Cynthia brought into the world through their work and their children. They have blessed so many by spreading love, understanding and acceptance—we can all be inspired to do the same.
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