Cynthia Johnston Fitch passed away on September 6, 2026, surrounded by loving family and friends.

She was born on September 29, 1950, in Burlington North Carolina to the late Louise Templeton and Robert Banks Fitch. The Fitch family moved to Jacksonville, Florida in 1959, but Cindy remained a “Carolina Girl” all her life! Born to be a teacher, she received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Winthrop College in Rock Hill, South Carolina and her Master’s in Education from Converse College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

For over 50 years Cindy worked within the Duval County School System, touching the lives of countless colleagues, students, and entire families. Her love was teaching 5th grade math and leading the annual production of American Grandstand; scholastically or otherwise, Ms. Fitch helped each student to shine and grow!

Throughout her teaching career, Cindy was acknowledged for her outstanding contributions being awarded Teacher of the Year at Oak Hill Elementary, Teacher of the Year at John Stockton Elementary (twice), and Teacher of the Year at West Riverside Elementary (twice). In 2007 Cindy was awarded the Gladys Prior Award for Career Teaching Excellence. Cindy was also a Duval County Teacher of the Year finalist.

Cindy’s life was enriched by her family, her friends, and the many students she had the privilege to teach over the years. She truly lives on through each of our lives. Of all Cindy’s achievements, the gift that gave her the greatest joy was that of her son, Bruce.

Cindy is survived by her son, Bruce Alexander Fitch of Jacksonville, Florida; her brother, Robert Templeton Fitch (Pam) of Jacksonville Beach, Florida; and her sister, Margaret Sumter Fitch (Elizabeth) of Jacksonville, Florida; and many amazing cousins in the Tar Heel state of North Carolina.

A private burial will be held on September 22, 2026, followed by a Celebration of Life at Riverside Presbyterian Church at 11:30 AM. A reception will follow at the church.

Cindy’s family wishes to thank the outstanding caregivers and staff at Ortega Memory Gardens. They will forever be known as Cindy’s “honey lambs.” The Fitch family loves you all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Riverside Presbyterian Church at 849 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204 or The Foundation of Community Hospice and Palliative Care, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32257. Please indicate “In Memory of Cindy Fitch” on the check or donation form.