The family of Cynthia Marilyn D. Mosley, affectionately known as “Mama Mosley,” announces her passing on May 4, 2026, at the age of 84. A Brooklyn native and lifelong community leader, Mosley is remembered as an educator, mentor, activist, and public servant whose work strengthened New York City schools, civic life, and progressive political organizing across decades. She was also the mother of Walter T. Mosley III, New York Secretary of State.
Mosley attended New York City public schools, including P.S. 29 and Girls High School, where she graduated in 1959 and was voted “Most Likely to Succeed.” She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Morgan State University, then graduated cum laude from City College, earning a master’s degree in science and mathematics education and a second master’s degree in educational administration and supervision. She was inducted into Phi Delta Kappa for her graduate-level work and was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Mosley began her professional career as a sixth-grade teacher at P.S. 29, where she taught alongside her mentor, Clara Cardwell, and served for more than 25 years as a respected New York City public school educator in teaching, supervisory, and administrative roles. In the 1980s, she served as director of the Citywide Task Force on Pregnant and Parenting Teens. She was widely known for expanding opportunities, including helping students secure grants and scholarships for higher education and personally supporting enrichment programming in New York City public schools.
Her public service extended into city government, including work as an assistant to Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden and as an administrative manager for the New York City Comptroller’s Office from 1992 to 2018. From 2018 to 2022, she served as a special advisor to City Council Speaker Corey Johnson.
A committed civic leader, Mosley founded and served as president of the Progressive Association for Political Action Democratic Club, supporting progressive Democrats running for office in central Brooklyn. She served as a delegate to the 2004 Democratic National Convention for the 10th Congressional District and as a District Leader for the 57th Assembly District. She was also recognized for her critical role in her son’s election, Walter T. Mosley III, to the New York State Assembly in 2012 to represent Assembly District 57.
In March 2024, Brooklyn Council Member Crystal Hudson honored Mosley for her “significant and valuable contributions” to the City and State of New York, recognizing her generosity, dedication, leadership, and public service.
Mosley was preceded in death by her daughter, Allyson Mosley. She is survived by her son, Walter T. Mosley III.
A funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 230 Classon Ave., with internment at Calverton National Cemetery.
