Irene Elizabeth Goodman

Irene Elizabeth Goodman nee Manning, a native Washingtonian and lifelong resident of the District of Columbia, was born Monday, November 12, 1917, to Alexander and Bessie (Tate) Manning, Irene was raised in love as the oldest daughter of thirteen remarkable children. Raised in the Capitol Hill and Georgetown areas of the city, Irene enjoyed an idyllic childhood filled with trips to the museums, Suburban Gardens amusement park, and, of course, Sunday School every week. Irene also served as a beloved surrogate daughter to her Uncle James and Aunt Bessie, who doted on her as they never had children of their own. She spent many days at their Kingman Place residence right off Logan Circle, exploring the bustling U Street aka “Black Broadway” corridor during its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s. From a young age, Irene’s natural charisma, quick wit, fearless attitude, and outgoing personality made her a welcome fixture in many clubs, activities, and social events around the city. An avid dancer and socialite, Irene spent her teenage years lighting up dance floors across the DC area. On July 23, 1935, Irene received her greatest gift, her only child Barbara Jean. As a young mother, Irene devoted her life to raising her daughter, always striving to do her best. She also helped raise her nephew, Jonathan Edwards, after the untimely passing of his mother. She never backed away from a challenge and exhibited perseverance even in the darkest of hours. She was the true embodiment of a dutiful daughter, niece, aunt, cousin, and of course, mother.

Irene then joined the workforce, serving as a valued member of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) at the United States Treasury Department for almost forty years. Irene excelled at her work and once again shined at the workplace, often throwing many social engagements for her coworkers and providing a place to relax and fellowship in her home outside of work hours. Though Irene’s life was full and she excelled as a single mother, trusted employee, and treasured community member, she still had more love to give. She met her beloved husband, David Goodman of Suffolk, Virginia, and they embarked on a love-filled life together. David was a WWII Army veteran, a career civil servant within the Federal Government, and most importantly, Irene’s biggest supporter. The duo could often be found dancing the night away in each other’s arms or exploring the country together. David also became an active stepfather in Barbara’s life and eventually devoted grandfather to his three granddaughters. The family enjoyed many years of happiness together before his passing in 1979.

Despite her sorrow, Irene was determined to live life to the fullest. She eventually retired after decades of impeccable service and embarked on the next chapter of her life. She became an avid domestic and international traveler, devotee of the arts, connoisseur of fine spirits and cuisines, and fashion aficionado, thoroughly enjoying every aspect of her retired life. As a competitive swimmer with the Silver Dolphins Club, Irene won numerous medals and awards for her aquatic prowess. She even found true love again, with her beloved long-time companion, Mr. John Brown. They were social butterflies, often traveling the country for various social soirees and hosting numerous functions at her home. She was well-known throughout the District of Columbia for her impeccable hosting abilities, with many clamoring for a prized invitation to attend an “exclusive” Irene Goodman affair. Despite his untimely and tragic passing in 1985, Irene continued to preserve and thrive. She often traveled with her family and friends, including her treasured granddaughter, Kim Ellermeier-Fridie, to Broadway plays, concerts in Atlantic City, and shopping excursions. Her vivacious energy was awe-inspiring, displaying more vigor than individuals half her age. Despite her diminutive stature, she commanded attention and respect in every room she entered!

Fiercely independent and uncompromising in her progressive beliefs, she defied the standards and constraints of her time. She was the definition of a “strong Black woman.” Despite being a “double minority” as a Black woman who battled the evils of sexism and racism on a daily basis, Irene never stopped fighting for causes that she believed in. When her only daughter was set to marry her husband, William F. Ellermeier, in 1956, this interracial couple was castigated and barred from marrying within white and Black churches within the District of Columbia. Once again defying the prejudicial attitudes of her time, Irene ensured that her daughter and beloved son-in-law were married within her residence and given a proper ceremony to affirm their love. She truly loved and welcomed all, often serving as a place of refuge for the most vulnerable and a shoulder to lean on for all whom she loved. She specifically devoted her time to ensuring the senior citizen members of her family and community were well taken care of, ensuring her elders were cared for with dignity and respect until their final day.

Irene's greatest devotion was to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was baptized at Way of the Cross Church of Christ in Washington D.C. She eventually became a respected member of the Isle of Patmos Baptist Church in Northeast Washington under the leadership of Reverend George Bolden Rogers. Irene was an active member of her congregation and adored her church family, truly embodying Jesus’ greatest commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Her devotion to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and overall love of life will forever inspire all who had the pleasure of meeting her. Irene’s final years were spent in comfort and peace within her residence that she purchased in 1956. She was constantly surrounded by family and defied the odds with her impeccable overall health and stamina. She was expertly cared for by her devoted home health aides, with her beloved granddaughter Kim Fridie being her primary caregiver and guardian until her final days.

Irene finished her final race and passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the remarkable age of 106. She is survived by her sister, Esther Woodfolk of Salina, KS; her granddaughters, Kim Fridie (Willmon), Kathy Rutledge (Joseph), and Kelly Stroud (Arthur); her seven great-grandchildren, David Fridie, Morgan Fridie, Brandon Rutledge, Blair Rutledge, Kalyn Rutledge, Taylor Ellermeier, and Korey Stroud; and one great-great-grandchild; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, eleven siblings, close friends, and relatives, including her husband, David Goodman; her daughter, Barbara J. Ellermeier and her son-in-law William F. Ellermeier; and her companion, John Brown.

Irene will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all. We thank God for her amazing life and know that she can now rest in power and in peace.