Cynthia Pennie (Gilliam) Batts

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

~ Colossians 3: 23 - 24

     Cynthia Pennie Gilliam Batts was born on February 16, 1947, to parents, Albert Gilliam and Pennie Ingram Gilliam. Their union produced two children, Cynthia and her brother Cornell Albert Gilliam. Though her mother was called home to glory just minutes after Cynthia’s birth, God’s hand was upon her life from the very beginning. 

     Following the passing of Pennie Ingram Gilliam, Albert later married the late Leola Gilliam. From this union came nine children: Willie J. Gilliam, the late Donald A. Gilliam, the late Cecil B. Gilliam, the late Patricia Ann Gilliam Soler, Eldred L. Gilliam, Debra A. Gilliam, Joe Gilliam, Dianne Gilliam, and Ara Lana Kay Gilliam.

     In 1971, Cynthia married the love of her life, William Clifton Batts, in a quiet ceremony at the courthouse in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Chanda Sherri Batts-Stephenson (Kevin), Clifton G. Batts (April Berggren-Batts), and Tiffany L. Batts.

     Cynthia was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest joys were her grandchildren—Ryan Wilson, Chandler Batts, Jared and Jeremiah Batts, Tiara Manning, and Natalie Avent (Jamale)—and her beloved great-grandchildren, Lamar Avent, Quinn Batts, and Haven Batts.

     Throughout her life, Cynthia held many roles and wore many hats. While living in Maryland, she worked diligently at Grambells Cleaners, Kim’s Cleaners, Control Data Corporation, Saint Elizabeth Hospital, and the U.S. Postal Service as a custodian.

     Later, she and her husband relocated to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to their hometown of Emporia. There, she served as a mail carrier while William worked on the Postal Security force. Cynthia would later return to Emporia, where she began driving a school bus before transitioning into a role at Adult Activity Services and eventually working at a Supervised Living Facility.

      With unwavering determination, Cynthia returned to school and earned her nursing credentials. She became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), certified in both Virginia and North Carolina. Her nursing career included roles at Greensville Memorial Hospital and District 19.

     Never one to be confined by limitations, Cynthia pursued her lifelong dream of helping others by opening her own adult care business. In 1991, she founded Low Ground Visions, Inc., an Adult Care Home that she operated until 2014. Alongside a business partner, she also opened Wilks-Batts Corner, which operated from 1991 to 1997. Cynthia broke new ground in her community—she was proud to be the first Black woman in Greensville County to own a Medicaid Cab business. In addition, she held a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Virginia, a testament to her versatility and commitment to service.

     Cynthia's contributions extended far beyond her professional life. She was an active and proud member of several organizations, including the National Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (NALPN), the Emporia-Greensville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and the Emporia Rehabilitation of Greensville County Board. She also served on the Southern Virginia Housing Authority for Emporia-Greensville County and sang with the 75th District Choir. 

     As a member of Elnora Jarrell Worship Center, Cynthia found joy and purpose in her ministry, helping to obtain, prepare, and distribute food through the church's food bank. She was also actively involved in the Emporia-Greensville Senior Circle and served faithfully as a poll worker during local elections.

     Even in retirement, Cynthia remained a vibrant force within her community. She embarked on a new business venture involving the purchase, renovation, and management of rental properties—further proof of her tireless spirit and entrepreneurial drive.

     Cynthia Pennie Gilliam Batts was a woman of deep faith, fierce determination, and boundless love for her family and community. Her life was a testament to resilience, purpose, and grace. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Batts tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

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"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Cynthia Pennie Gilliam Batts

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