Ralph McLean Angell Jr.

He was the son of Ralph M. Angell, Sr., and Frances Bennett Angell of South Richmond, both of whom predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Roy Soukup, Jr.; Roy’s parents; his elder cousins; and aunts and uncles to whom he was devoted.

He is survived by his loving family: sister, Lucille A. Soukup of Wilmington, DE; nieces and nephews, Alan D. Soukup of Rockville, MD; The Rev. Nancy H. Soukup and The Rev. Dr. Dcn Dorothy L. Brightman of Warwick, RI; Betty S. and Ronald L. Blackburn of North Chesterfield, VA; Catherine C. Soukup of Wilmington, DE; Amy C. Soukup of Odenton, MD; Patrick M. Blackburn of Henrico, VA; Jessica M. Blackburn of Henrico, VA; Brian A. Soukup of Columbia, MD; and many beloved cousins, extended family, and friends.

Mac was a graduate of P. S. DuPont High School in Wilmington, DE (Class of 1959), the University of Richmond (BA, 1963) and Duke University (MA, 1965). He taught English in Harrington, DE (1965-66). He continued his teaching career in the Chesterfield County Public Schools for 30 years at Falling Creek Middle School (1966-71) and Meadowbrook High School (1971-1996). In retirement, Mac worked with students in the writing lab at Maggie Walker Governors’ School. He was a coach to the Meadowbrook HS and Governor’s School Battle of the Brains teams, travelling with them for intrastate and interstate competitions. His devotion to his profession and his students is legendary, and he inspired and was beloved by countless students throughout his career.

In addition to his family and teaching, Mac was devoted to music. He played French horn in high school and college and was a fine bass singer throughout his adult life. He was a founding member of CAFUR under the direction of his friend and mentor, James Erb. He sang in the Richmond Symphony Chorus, Richmond Concert Chorale, and Camerata Appalachia with whom he travelled and performed in the England and Wales in 1993.

He was a steadfast friend to many and long-time member of Grace Baptist Church. Although his ancestral church home was Stockton Street Baptist Church in South Richmond, his roots at Grace went back to his childhood. In adulthood, he sang in the choir, was a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and served in many other roles during his six decades there.

His family wishes to extend deep thanks to his dear friends and the staff of The Laurels of Bon Air for their care for him in the last several years of his life. Mac was also cared for by the staff of Johnston-Willis hospital in the ER, Neurological ICU, Intermediate Care Unit, and by Hospice of VA in his final week. Our family extends heartfelt gratitude for his care, and for helping us to navigate that challenging time.

As you remember our beloved Mac, and in lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in his memory to Grace Baptist Church, WCVE Public Media, or a charity of your choice.