Memorial Service for Alma E. Rangel
A memorial service for Alma E. Rangel, the beloved wife of the distinguished Charles B. Rangel, former United States Representative and Statesman-in-Residence at The City College of New York, is set for 10 a.m., Oct. 19, 2024, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, located at 219 West 132nd Street in Manhattan. Mrs. Rangel, a long-time activist and social worker, passed away last week.
Condolences from Congressman Rangel
In his statement, Congressman Rangel said: “To those who had the pleasure of knowing my beautiful wife, Alma, let me take this time to thank you for sharing your condolences and sympathy for our family’s loss this week. We have been so fortunate enjoying Alma’s love, affection, and support over these many, many years that we can only thank God for having her with us for so long,”. “On behalf of my children, Steven and Alicia, and my family, let me sincerely thank all of you for your words of support during this time of our loss. Your thoughts are sincerely and deeply appreciated.”
Paying Tribute to Mrs. Rangel
CCNY President Vincent G. Boudreau said: “Mrs. Rangel will be fondly remembered for her strong commitment to her family and community and as an inspiration to many. The City College extends its deepest condolences to the Rangel family.”
A Life of Service
Family, friends, and associates hailed Mrs. Rangel as passionate, socially conscious, and driven in all her endeavors. She was a woman of great vision whose long meritorious service included founder and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses, a social fundraising arm of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, which awards grants to college students around the country.
Among her other roles, she also served as President and CEO of the Ralph J. Rangel Foundation, which provides scholarships to students, and vice chair of the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens’ Board of Directors. Her hard work in the latter position resulted in the construction of the Alma Rangel Gardens. This 89-unit apartment building provides housing and support services for low and middle-income seniors in Harlem.
A Lifetime of Travel and Social Work
During her time as a social worker and trips abroad to visit imprisoned Americans, rural villages, soup kitchens, and Peace Corps projects on many continents, she developed an interest in speaking with women’s organizations on issues that affect women in developing countries.
Specifically, Mrs. Rangel became interested in the role of the Cuban economy as it relates to women and the human rights of women in Cuba after she visited Cuba in 2002.
Conclusion
Mrs. Rangel’s life was a testament to her dedication to her family, community, and the world at large. Her extensive work and travels have had a lasting impact on many lives, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.
FAQs
* When is the memorial service for Alma E. Rangel?
+ 10 a.m., Oct. 19, 2024, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 219 West 132nd Street in Manhattan
* What was Mrs. Rangel’s role in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation?
+ Founder and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses, a social fundraising arm of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
* What was the purpose of the Alma Rangel Gardens?
+ A 89-unit apartment building providing housing and support services for low and middle-income seniors in Harlem