Obituary

Cynthia Ann Paulk

April 13, 1940 - February 23, 2026

Cynthia Ann Paulk, age 85 and of Summit, MS., passed peacefully on the morning of February 23, after a long battle with illness surrounded by her loved ones. 

A memorial service will be held at Hartman-Jones Funeral Home of McComb on February 25, 2026 at 11am, with open visitation from 10 AM until services at 11 AM. Dr. David Millican and Bro. Bradley White officiating and a graveside will follow at Woodlawn cemetery in Summit. 

Cynthia was born in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, on April 13, 1940, to the late, George Lanier and Estel (Vanadore) Lanier, both of Tangipahoa Parish. 

She cherished her roots and carried that Southern grace throughout her life. Cynthia will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and steadfast devotion to family and community. Attended Spring Creek High School. Later pursued education at Southwest Mississippi Community College, where she was part of the initial class for the new nursing program.

She built a long and devoted career as a nurse, providing compassionate care to countless patients. In addition to nursing, she served as an office manager for several health agencies and Pharmacies within the Pike County area.

A longtime member of Summit First Baptist and later Central Baptist Church, where she found fellowship and strength. Active as vice president of the Pike County Beauty Pageant for over 15 years, a role that reflected her zest for life and her belief in supporting young people. This hobby echoed her own memories of triumph as Crowned as Miss Tangipahoa Dairy Queen during her senior year of high school.

Cynthia’s legacy lives on in the many lives she touched—through her nursing care, her service to her community, and the love she bestowed upon her family. She will be deeply missed by all who know her.

Cynthia was preceded in death, by husband Charles Paulk, one brother, Lyle Lanier. 

She is survived by her brother, Ted Lanier of Tangipahoa, LA.,  her  three children, Rhonda Love (Randall) Summit, MS, Rodney Dickey Jr., of Savannah, GA, and Ronald Dickey of McComb, MS., six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Jude Children's Hospital or to a charity of your choice in her memory.