Angela Lucia Blackwell

Angela Lucia Blackwell was born in Venezuela to Milton and Matilda Goodridge and raised in Trinidad as the eldest of four siblings—Jorge. (deceased), Vanda, and Jerry. From an early age, she embraced her role as protector and supporter of her siblings, carrying that responsibility throughout her life.

Angela’s vivacious personality, intellect, and loyalty made her unforgettable. If she was your friend, you never had to question it. A natural leader with a Type A spirit, she gave her opinions freely, stood firmly for what she believed, and did not tolerate disrespect.

In the 1960s, Angela moved to New York, earned her associate’s degree from New York Community College, and built a distinguished 30+ year career at JCPenney's, ultimately becoming a Senior Executive in Human Resources. It was in New York that she met and later married Edward Blackwell, Sr. on August 30, 1969. Their partnership was passionate, tested, and unbreakable, rooted in shared values, music, travel, and family. Together, they became globe trotters, hosts of legendary parties, and the couple who always opened and closed the dance floor.

In 1974, Angela and Edward welcomed their son, Edward Jr. in Queens, New York and later moved to Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Upon a transfer with Edward Sr.'s job, the family moved to Spring, Texas, a suburb of Houston, in the 1980s. Angela continued her career at JCPenney’s and became involved in the community—serving the church as a Eucharistic minister, volunteering in politics, and bringing people of all backgrounds together through celebration. Later, in retirement, she worked at Klein Forest High School, where she became a beloved figure who empowered students, not only with discipline, but with compassion and personal care.

Angela was also a fierce advocate for justice, successfully challenging discrimination in the workplace and defending others without a voice.

In 2022, Angela retired from Klein Forest High School. By 2023, she began showing signs of cognitive decline and, with Edward, moved to Maravilla in Austin, Texas to be closer to family. She quickly became a beloved figure within her new community—once again the life of the party. Although dementia, alongside high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and edema, brought increasing health challenges, Angela’s spirit remained. She lit up at the sight of her grandchildren, Angelina and Tre, and continued to share her warmth and presence with all those around her.

In April 2025, her health required a transition into memory care. Though dementia sometimes clouded her sharp mind and fiery wit, Angela’s strength, presence, and love were never fully dimmed. Her husband, Edward, visited her daily until his own passing on June 24, 2025. Angela joined him in eternal rest on August 14, 2025.

She is survived by her siblings, her son Edward Jr., daughter-in-law Esther, and her grandchildren. Angela leaves a legacy of loyalty, resilience, advocacy, and joy. She taught us to value education, stand up for ourselves, embrace travel, live with passion, and, above all—celebrate life.

While her physical presence will be missed, her spirit will always echo one of her favorite refrains: “Joy to the World!”

Rest in power, Angela.