Angela Ellen Soward

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Angela Ellen Soward, age 53, on December 30, 2024. A beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, niece, and friend, she touched the lives of many with her goodwill and compassion.

She is survived by her adoring parents, Richard and Cindy White, her loving husband, Dustin, her cherished daughter, Ava, and her devoted sister, Ann Marie Thomas. She is also survived by her wonderful extended family: in-laws, aunt and uncle, cousins, nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

Born in Van Nuys, California on April 12, 1971, at Valley Presbyterian Hospital, Angela and her family moved to Houston, Texas in 1973. She spent her childhood years enjoying swimming, riding bikes and playing with her friends. She was very athletic and an excellent basketball player during her school years, which she often reminisced about with fondness.

Angela attended Texas State University and later graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW) in 2001. She dedicated her life to helping others and had over 25 years of experience in the social services field in a variety of capacities including positions at various non-profits where she provided administrative oversight as well direct services to clients and families. She also spent several years as a Program and Policy specialist at the Texas Workforce Commission. Angela had a deep compassion for individuals affected by the disease of addiction and provided help through her work at Discovery Sober Living, with her business partner, Eric Parsons. Her selfless spirit and unwavering support made a profound impact on countless lives. She will be remembered as a beacon of kindness and support.

Prior to getting married, Angela and her sister lived together in an adorable house in Central Austin with all of their cats. They created countless memories of sisterly time together including cooking Sunday night dinner and watching their favorite shows. Shortly afterward, Dustin and Angela were married on June 14, 2002 off Lake Travis surrounded by loved ones followed by a beautiful reception at Shoreline where friends and family danced the night away. Their precious daughter, Ava, was born on January 4, 2004. Angela was an excellent mother who loved her family immensely. Angela loved singing to Ava, teaching her the joy of music. She passed down her favorite music, movies, and stories that could be shared through generations. One song she always sang to Ava as a baby was “They Long to be Close to You” by the Carpenters.

She had a deep love for birds, music, family, and all animals, finding joy and peace in their presence. Her home was always filled with the sounds of her favorite songs and the chirping of the birds she so dearly loved. She also cherished her many pets, Sassy, Simba, Loco and Twinkles, who brought her immense joy and companionship.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Angela’s honor to Austin Pets Alive or Austin Wildlife Rescue.

https://donate.austinpetsalive.org/give/420815/#!/donation/checkout

https://www.austinwildliferescue.org/waystogive

Angela, our hearts are broken. We will hold you close to our hearts forever and until we meet again.

“Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there; I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn’s rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there; I did not die.” Clare Harner, 1934.