Cynthia F. Diaz (nee Wilczynski)
Cynthia lived her life as a disciple of Christ, serving him in word and deed throughout her years. She attended Sunday mass and various devotional services with her parents from a young age.
A graduate of Buffalo State College and Middlebury College, Cynthia was dedicated to music and languages. She played both piano and organ, and dabbled in guitar. She became a full-time church organist at age 16 and served many parishes in the Buffalo Diocese over the next 46 years. Cynthia was a true music minister - playing, singing, and leading choirs with a joyful and faith-filled spirit.
Cynthia served the Buffalo Diocese and WNY adult education programs as a teacher of French, Italian, and Spanish for over 40 years. She spoke four languages fluently, and maintained conversational familiarity in at least three others.
In addition to her work and ministry to the church, Cynthia enjoyed traveling abroad and studying other cultures. She appreciated music and the theater.
Following her retirement, Cynthia experienced health issues that required her to step back from active ministry in the Church. It was very hard on her when she was no longer able to serve as music minister, no longer able to sing praise to God, and no longer able to attend Mass.
In spite of her health issues, Cynthia’s hope was in Jesus, and she looked forward to joining the communion of saints in everlasting life.
Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Frances Wilczynski and many pet cats. She is survived by her sister, Gail Tutt (Stephen); cousin, Wesley Oliveri (Leigh Anne); and her cat, Marcello.
The family will greet friends at 9:30 am, with a funeral Mass at 10:00am, on Saturday, November 12, at St. Martha Church, 10 French Rd., Depew. Committal will immediately follow the Mass at Forest Lawn.
Flowers are gratefully declined and memorials may be made to Ten Lives Club or the St. Martha Church (Depew, NY) Music Ministry.