BY KARL MARKLUND, GUEST WRITER TO THE TIMES
ORLANDO – Are you interested in the story of two remarkable women who transformed their passion for caring for people into a successful business? Meet Cynthia Batts and Johnetta Batts, the proud owners of Batts Lakeview Funeral Home.
Cynthia Batts has had an impressive career. She started out as a science teacher after obtaining a Master’s Degree in Science Education from the University of Florida. After teaching for a while, she decided to return to pharmacy school, which led to a pharmacy career spanning over four decades. She worked in retail for a major chain drugstore, taught at Xavier University, and served as a Clinical Pharmacist for one of the largest hospitals in Florida. Her dedication and hard work earned her a Doctorate in Pharmacy from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
But Cynthia’s story doesn’t end there. She returned to school in 2014 to pursue her interest in Mortuary Science after her brother Ray Batts’ health began to decline. In 2017, she graduated from Florida State College at Jacksonville with an Associate of Science degree in Mortuary Science.
Cynthia’s passion for caring for people extends beyond her profession. She firmly believes in the importance of family legacy and asserts that business owners should have a succession plan. Her famous quote, “Dreams don’t have to die when the originator of the dream dies,” is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience.
Together with her partner, Johnetta Batts, Cynthia has turned her dream into reality. Their funeral home, now known as Batts Lakeview Funeral Home, stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to offering exceptional care and support to their clients.
Batts’ words resonate deeply with those who have experienced loss. She knows firsthand the pain and grief that come with losing loved ones. But throughout it all, she found comfort in the support of her friends and the professionalism of the funeral director and staff. Her dedication to giving back to the community, especially to children, is truly inspiring.
As a Mortician, she believes it is her calling to have empathy, patience, and a servant’s heart. She always thinks of her deceased loved ones and how she can assist them during their most challenging moments.
Batts is not just a Mortician, but also a member of several organizations, including, but not limited to, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, The Links Incorporated, and Jack and Jill of America.
Cynthia is also a minister, speaker, and facilitator. Her passion for serving others knows no bounds. She currently volunteers as a tutor at the Orlando Union Rescue Mission and will soon begin volunteering as a tutor at the Bradley-Otis Boys and Girls Club.
Cynthia’s life is a testament to the power of kindness and philanthropy.
