Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA

Obituary For Dr. Cynthia McClennon Charity

Dr. Cynthia McClennon Charity, 73, of Richmond, Virginia, departed this life October 13, 2021 surrounded by her beloved family. Born in Winston Salem, North Carolina, on February 2, 1948, to the late Leslie Dallas McClennon, Sr. and Annie Harper McClennon, she attended Atkins High School, where she excelled in academics, athletics and service. As the salutatorian of her high school class, she was selected as part of the first wave of African American students to integrate Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she graduated with a degree in Biology. It was in Nashville at Vanderbilt's homecoming celebration in 1966 that she met the love of her life, Dr. Renard Adkins Charity, Sr., then a student at nearby Meharry Medical College, through mutual friends. Following their courtship, the couple was married on August 26, 1967, in a garden ceremony at her childhood home in North Carolina. Their first child, Renard Charity, Jr., arrived in 1968, further motivating the young couple to focus on their shared vision for a future in medical private practice.

As both one of the few African Americans and one of the few women in her classes at the time, Dr. Cynthia Charity completed her studies at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, in May 1976. She completed additional coursework at the City College of New York and the University of Richmond. Successful completion of medical school is no small feat for any person; however, it was so rare for a married woman with a young child to complete her studies during that time that she was honored with a feature article in her medical school yearbook. A second child, Anne, arrived in 1976, and a third, Renée, completed the family in 1978. Dr. Charity completed her residency in Pediatrics at the Medical College of Virginia from July 1976 to January 1980. She opened a Pediatric Medical Practice in January 1980, practicing from the same building as her husband's Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice at 1500 Semmes Avenue, Richmond, until they built medical office buildings at 700 West Grace Street and 101 Cowardin Avenue.

Dr. Charity was delighted to see her patients grow up under her care. Rarely could she and her husband go to the store or run an errand without hearing the call, "Dr. Charity! Dr. Charity!" by adoring former patients greeting them enthusiastically. She loved all of her patients over her 26 years of private practice from 1980 to 2006, when she retired.

Involved in many entrepreneurial endeavors and a member of many organizations and boards, Dr. Charity was the happiest when engaging in creative pursuits such as sewing a garment, crocheting or cross-stitching elaborate patterns, and beautifully decorating her home for each holiday. She enjoyed watching the sunset at her home on the James River, traveling the world with her husband, and most of all, spending time with cherished family members and friends. She was a member of Gilfield Baptist Church, Charles City, Virginia.

In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by her brother, Leslie D. McClennon, Jr.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Dr. Renard Charity, Sr.; children, Renard Charity, Jr. (Kristen Gosselin) of Needham, MA, Dr. Anne Harper Charity Hudley (James Christopher Hudley) of Stanford, CA, and Renée Charity Price (Michael Price, Jr.) of Princeton, NJ; five devoted grandchildren, Madeleine Charity, Emma Charity, Olivia Charity, Carter Price, and Caroline Price; other relatives and numerous friends. Her memorial will be private. The family would like to request no flowers but please make a memorial contribution to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd.

Guest Book

My Dr Charity rest in peace.My condolences to my family. Blessings for peace to Dr.Renard and family.May the peace of God comfort my family when all are weak.Psalms 23 .

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Where do i begin ... This Great Dr.C Charity was my son Pediatrician Docotor for years. What i loved about her was the way she talk to the baby, little kids, and the parents. She had a very nice soft voice that would make you listen to what she had to say at that time.When my son (Andre` Rivers) turned 13 she told him GOODBYE. The next week he needed to go to see the new Doctor and he stated 'I want to go back to my Dr. Charity mom' i don`t like this new Doctor. lol May you rest in peace. Family... Don`t weep Don`t moan because Dr. Cynathia Charity has gone on home. Family take good care of Mr Charity bka Dr R Charity.love you all.

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Sending my condolences to the Charity family.

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My family and I will always remember her as a beautiful caring doctor. Mr Charity delivered my children and she took care of my boys. You will always have a piece of our hearts. Love Consuelo Dock n Family

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Rest in peace Dr C Charity my condolences to the Charity family she was my daughter's pediatrician until she out grew the practice love Carrie Lee

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Rest in peace Dr C charity she was my daughter's pediatrician good doctor

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To Dr. Cynthia Charity's Family. Deep condolenses love and prayers. Dr Charity was my 3 children's dr &My grandsons dr. She was soo sweet and real when we talked. When something funny hit her her laugh was priceless. When I called her frantic while rushing home when my son injured his neck large knot on the side of his neck and he couldn't move his head happened while he was flipping & jumping on the bed. She tried not laughing as she couldn't while she told me what it was and how to treat him along with saying he'll be good as new in hours. She called me later to check on him he certainly was better and jumping on the bed again. Her laugh was priceless. She always took time to listen,give advice and a hug. And yes every time we saw her in a store or out u couldn't keep us away from her. And 🦋 in her office I too have butterflies or a butterfly n every room of my house before I met her. Also Dr Renard was my dr.and my daughters' Dr before he retired. Straight love to your family she is truly missed. Rita Gregory-Jordan,Wendell Jordan,Rarchell,Tracie Gregory & Breon Jordan.

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On behalf of the entire Third Baptist Church family, and in support of our dear members, the Courtney family, we extend our heart-felt prayers to the Charity family during this time of your loss. May God continue to strengthen you. Rev. John F. Kenney, Pastor Third Baptist Church, Hampton

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Prayers for the Charity family. Dr. Charity was a resident in an office I worked at way back when. She was an inspiration to me. May the family rest in peace knowing she is in heaven! Margarete Culley

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Dr. Cynthia Charity was my sons pediatrician. She was a warm, loving and kind woman. Rest in Peace Dr. Charity

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My condolences to the family of Dr. Cynthia Charity. We were not best friends, but shared pediatric residency---an experience filled with life and death, sleep deprivation and emotions easily brought to the service. She was the "good resident", the person you wanted to work with because of her knowledge, her good clinical skills, her calmness (unflappable!) and dependability. And no complaining. Her patients had a great doctor. Lydia Kernitsky, Midlothian, VA.

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Renard and family, I was saddened to hear of Cynthia's death. I enjoyed meeting and taking care of you both in my hand surgery practice, and in the times we would meet in the medical community. Though it has been a few years, I remember you both very well. You are both special people; kind, caring, intelligent. You accomplishments in our community are many. My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time. Steve Leibovic

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Hi Dr. Charidy, sorry for your loss. We will keep you & the family in prayer. Stay strong. Faye, Robin, & Robert Bristow

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Hey Dr Charity sorry for your loss I know that Dr Cynthia Charity was your world.She will be missed .You and the family are in our and heart and prayer stay strong. Faye ,Robin,Robert Bristow

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To A Loving Family, Dr. Renard Charity and the entire Family I will always remember the Patient Dr. Relationship we had for so many years. My Prayers is well you all.... May GOD bless you,... Love 💜💜💜 Alfreda Robinson Alphonso Langley

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A Journey Remembered: Dr. Cynthia Charity left footprints of kindness and love, courage and compassion, humor and inspiration, joy and faith. Even though she has gone, we can still look back and clearly see the trail left behind--a trail bright with hope, strength and grace for someone who has made our world a brighter,better place.It was indeed a pleasure covering with her as a pediatrician over the years. May your family find comfort in the knowledge that warm thoughts and sympathy are with them as we celebrate a life well lived. Dr. Joyce Whitaker & Dr. James Campbell

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Dr. Charity was so kind and soft spoken. She listened to all your concerns and made sure you were comfortable. She will be missed greatly.

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To The Family So sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Charity I can remember when she saw my daughter after birth for her 3-6 mo check up ,Dr. Charity was trying to listen to her heart and lungs with the stethoscope, and my daughter was very playful kicking and babbling, but Dr. charity waited patiently until my daughter stopped so that she could listen again I do believe she was ordained by god to be a pediatrician because she had such a gentle spirit,My daughter is 36 yrs old now and I told her about that day. Rest in Paradise.

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Condolences to the Charity Family. She was our children's doctor when we lived in Richmond Va. The Palmers Barbara,William,Alexis and Bill

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To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Sending my deepest condolences to the Charity family.🕊

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Rest in peace my dear friend,my sympathy and peace to the Charity family.Cynthia and I were friends for over 65 years, and I miss her. Her friend, Diane Speas

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Deepest condolence to the entire charity family .. thank you Dr. Cynthia charity you took care of all three of my children .. so sweet .. so kind .. and professional .. rest well angel .. thank you .. the jones family. Juanita , Nonie , and Wendell jones jr.

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Our condolences to Dr.R.Charity and family.So sorry to hear of the passing of Dr.C.Charity.She took care of my son and guided us through many health crisis.Dr.R.Charity delivered him and she was his pediatrician.Today he is 41 years old and grateful for the care given.Many memories from Richmond Memorial Hospital.Praying for each of you !!..Betty Hyde.

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Drs. Charity, you all have blessed my life with wonderful summer (poolside:)) fun, my first summer job, and exposure to fantastic experiences. You all have been influential in my childhood, and I thank you. Dr. Cynthia, may you rest in peace. Dr. Renard, may you find comfort in wonderful memories and in your family. Much love and comfort to Renny, Anne and Renee. Love to you all. Jocelyn (Jones) Frasier

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Sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Charity. May God give you the strength and comfort you need at this time. You have our prayers and our deepest sympathy and condolences. Charlotte Charity Peterson

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Prayers and Condolences to the family of Dr. Cynthia M. Charity. Dr. Charity was both of our sons Pediatrician. She was such a brilliant and kind Doctor. She consistently encouraged me and always made herself available for any questions I had as a new mother. May your family find comfort in the legacy that you leave behind and may you peacefully Rest in Paradise. The West Famiky

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To the Charity family I offer my conndolences. Remembering with love the kindness, joy and love that Cynthia brought into the life of others. It was her style when we were in elementary school and throughout her life, a legacy of the McClennons. Precious memories and Prayers for the family. ~Lasenia Howie Jones and Albert Jones.

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Sending my deepest condolences to the family . I'm glad i was able to meet you while working with Dr Renard Charity for 10 years . Rest Peacefully Dr Cynthia Charity 😇🙏🏽

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I will miss you my friend of many years, many experiences, much sharing and caring. I do know God is merciful and did not want you to suffer. Love and prayers to the family.

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So sad to hear the news of her passing. Dr Cynthia gave me my start fresh out of Nursing School. I will never forget all she taught me. I so enjoyed working with such a beautiful person for 22 years. I was sad when she told us she was retiring. Rest on in Heaven Dr CC gone too soon.

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Dear Charity Family, I met Dr. Charity as the mother of Anne and Renee when both were fifth graders at St. Catherine's. Along with wanting and expecting the best of each, her grace is my lasting memory. How gratified she must have been with the adults you became. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences are with you. May you find comfort from the lives she touched and peace from the love she inspired. Nancy Davies

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Dr.Charity,one with a beautiful spirit she was loved by many.she and her husband cared for my entire family. We are deeply sadden by her passing. Her smile brightened up your day. Such a beautiful flower. We the Archie family sends our prayers and condolences to your family. Thank you Dr. Charity for take care of our family.We will cherish your memories for ever. REST IN PARADISE GODS ANGEL❤❤❤

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My heartfelt condolences to the Charity family. Dr. Charity was the best pediatrician EVER. Her calming spirit and authentic adoration for her patients is what makes her so memorable. I'm thankful my daughter was able to be cared for by her. Rest in Heaven Queen, job well done. Sincerely, Monica & Morgan Streat

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Family has my condolences. Dr. Charity was my son doctor and she was the best. My son is now 29yrs old. She was the kindest doctor in the world. She would keep me laughing about my son as he was growing up saying he's going to big and tall. She was right about that, he's 6'4 and big. R.I.P. Dr. Charity.

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Thank you for being my son Rawland Dr. 43 years ago, you will be well miss Dr. Cynthia Charity. To know you was to love you . Your were a great Dr. give my condolences to the family. Thank you Eva Pryor Burton

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RIP. You have given so much joy brining a lot of babies into this world. I remember how much you loved butterflies 🦋. Love you Dr Charity you will be truly missed.

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My deepest heartfelt condolences to the family. She was all of my children's pediatrician, and she didn't miss a beat with them. Always on call whenever I needed her

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Thank you Dr.Charity. You were an amazing doctor to my now 4 men. With your medical knowledge and love for children; that's the support a young African American mother needed. I'm so sorry for your family loss...... Sonya McClure Hopson

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My sympathy goes out to whole family.My name is Diane Speas and Cynthia was my oldest friend. We meet when we were 3years old,living in Winston-Salem, our home town. She and I experienced all the the growing up issues and as adults we continued to be good friends. She will surely be missed by all of those who knew her. "Rest in peace Cynthia" Love the family, Diane

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Dr. Charity was an amazing woman. She was always so kind and gracious. I loved the butterflies in her office and enjoyed my time working with her through Chippenham Medical Ctr. My thoughts and prayers are with Renard and the family. Sincerely, Amy O'Bryan

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Wow am sure we can't stay here forever but this woman and her husband Dr. Charity had took care so many people am one her husband helped with the birth of me she took care of me then her husband was my doctors again even with both of my children and she was my daughter doctor.. They're Doctor's Legendary at Cowardain Medical Center and am sure they lived a wonderful life and am sure its hard on the family... May you rest in paradise beautiful and my condolences to the family and Dr. Charity you guys are and were so amazing from the Brown's Family

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To Dr. Renard Charity and family. It saddened us to hear about the passing of Dr. Cynthia Charity. She was my 2 sons pediatrician from birth to adolescence. Dr. Cynthia was the best and we were very fond of her. We have great memories of her that are very dear. We pray for strength from God during this difficult time now and always 🙏🏽🙏🏽 Sharlette, Dominique and LaRon Pryor

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Dear Charity family, My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you. Norman & Gloria Harrison

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To: Charity Family! Blessings, God will take care of you. Howard and Gloria Charity

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Dr. Cynthia Charity was a wonderful pediatrician! My condolences to the Charity and McClennon families. God Bless S. Annette Meade & Family

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RIH DrCc what a Beautiful Soul. I had the pleasure of working with her for 22 years. Thanks for all you taught me fresh out of Nursing School. Gone too soon ❤💕

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You were a wonderful doctor!! I was so excited when I gave birth to my first child and you became her pediatrician. We both had the best pediatrician in Richmond. Sending my condolences to her family and friends.

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Dear Rennie and Family, It seems like it was yesterday when your son was in my class. He was the epitome of both parents and grandparents.He was a delight, a treasure. May God bless each and everyone of you in your time of bereavement. Love Bonnie K , I will never forget-

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Dr. Cynthia Charity gave me a chance! She gave me my first job in the medical field, and I enjoyed every minute of working in her pediatric practice. I will never forget her! Rest in Love, Dr. Charity. Peace to the family. Be strong!! Rosalyn Brackett ("Roz").

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Thank you Dr Charity you were amazing to myself as a kid and as I had my own kids! Precious soul who will be missed!

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Thank you so much Dr. Charity for taking such good care of me as a child. I'm praying for the Charity family and friends.

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Charity Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your beautiful mother. I loved reading about her amazing life, and I know she is so proud of all you all have become, and your children. She led a wonderful life and contributed to the lives of so many and has left an amazing legacy. Praying for you all. Jessica Smith Bright

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My condolences to the Charity family during these difficult times. My son is now 26, Dr. Charity was the absolute best pediatrician. She was loving and genuine, she will be missed immensely. J. Brooks-Bell

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Thank you Dr. Charity for the love, care and attention you gave to our babies. Always there to listen to the the child and the parent. Memories of you as the pediatrician and Dr. Renard Charity as the gynecologist will last forever. Praying for the family!!

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To the Charity Family: Thank you so much for the love and caring spirit of the up bringing of my two daughters, your wife and mother was a very patient person when it came to dealing with children. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during your time of sorrow. Wilton and Cynthia Brown and girls

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With my sincerest condolences to the family my 💔 go out to you. Dr. Reanard Charity hold on to God's unchanging hands, he will walk with you through this journey. Ronald Flythe & Lorie Flythe Joyner🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽

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RIP Dr.Charity you were my son and daughter pediatrician. I was at lost of words when I saw this. My prayers and condolences to your family. Sincerely, The Legette Family

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Beautiful inside and out, a cherished neighbor and friend, she was always positive and a true example of a life well lived, albeit far too short. We always felt lifted up, when around Cynthia. Eternal peace and joy to you, Renard, and all the family. We look forward to more celebrations in the future, together, on high. Dewey & Gayle Ferguson

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Although distance separates us physically, you are held close as you are remembered by your many cousins of Canada. Such an impressive life, forms a pristine example of excellence for us all. May you Rest in Peace, dearest Cynthia, in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. -Respectfully, Katherine Wallace of the DeRozaro-Wallace-Miles family group of Ontario.

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To my dear friend, Renée, and her family: we are thinking of you and carry the weight of this loss with you; you are never alone. All our love, Sarah, Chrissy, Henry, and Ada

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My condolences to the family. She was loved by so many. My mom told me I was one of her first patients at her practice on January 3, 1980. Myself and family are saddened by the news but we are glad she served so many with a caring heart. From the Daniel Family

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Praying that God will continue to bless the Charity family. Dr. Cynthia was a very kind and caring person. I'm sure my boys remember her gentleness for many years as their pediatrician. Barbara Paige.

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My sincere condolences to the Charity family. I became a patient of Dr. R Charity and when my 33 year old now son was born the only doctor I wanted to take him too was right near DR R Charity open one door and went right into her office. I want to say Thank You Cynthia for the shots for my son Antonio Davis, for the knowledge you gave me in caring for him and your beautiful smile. Dr. R Charity the last time I saw you and Mrs. Doctor Charity was at Dr. Monroe Harris office off of Monument Ave. We chatted briefly. I know you are going to miss your side kick. Stay strong and know God is your strength. Love, your old patient Barbara Davis

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To the Charity family im so sorry for your loss i have some great memories with both Dr Charity's sending prayers🌹🌹🌹

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I am absolutely lost for words. Battery Hill drive is strong! To the Charity family the Hamilton's will always be here if you ever need us! Love Scott Hamilton.

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Dr. Charity and Family...My prayers and deepest sympathy to each of you. Will always remember the lovely lady, with a lovely smile, that passed by our door each day. Lila Gammon, Medical Records, Richmond Memorial Hospital

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Dr. Renard and Family, We were saddened to learn of Dr. Cynthia's passing and extend our sincere sympathies. May God bless, keep and comfort you during this trying time. May precious memories sustain you in the days and months ahead. Warren and JoAnne Bell

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Sincere condolences to the children and Dr. Renard Charity, my VUU classmate. Harold A. Stills

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I've known this family since my earliest memories. Growing up, Renard and I were the only kids of the same age and easily became fast friends. We went to school, played on the same teams and even traveled together. Dr. Charity, you were lovely, kind and soft-spoken and I always admired you and your family. May you rest in Peace.

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My deepest condolences to you'll. Dr. Cynthia was my girls pediatrician. I truly appreciated her. May all the memories of your wife, mother, grandmother and friend continue to stay in your hearts. Love Joie

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To the Charity family our family we are so sorry on the passing of your love one Cynthia .She was one of the best and we will keep those wonderful memories. May God give you the strength and comfort you need at this time. You have our prayers and our deepest sympathy and condolences. Eugene and Judy Crump

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"Thank You" Dr. Charity for your care of our son, Timothy. He is now age 38. Dr. Renard, we will never forget you, your professional and caring spirit. Thomas & Ann Garnett Miller Clarksville, Virginia

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RIP Aunt Cynthia, love Sharon Rae

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

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