“I am, O my Lord, Thy handmaiden, who hath hearkened to Thy call, and hastened unto Thee, fleeing from herself and resting her heart upon Thee.”
—Bahá’u’lláh
Obituary
Tangela Michelle Baldwin Stanley was born in Loris, South Carolina, on October 26, 1962. From the very beginning, she moved through the world with a brilliance that was impossible to ignore. Academically gifted and a musical prodigy, she graduated as salutatorian of her high school class and earned distinction as a North Carolina Governor’s School Scholar. She later received her Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in International Studies from UNC–Greensboro. A lifelong learner, Tangela remained a student of history, divinity, philosophy, and the mystery of human existence. Curiosity was her constant companion. Wonder was her native language.
Raised in a loving family devoted to The Bahá’í Faith, Tangela grew up surrounded by music, faith, and service. Her parents and extended family were active members of the Bahá’í and greater communities, fostering unity and encouraging selfless service. From childhood, Tangela absorbed the Faith’s teachings and lived them throughout her life—as a youth, a mother, an artist, and a servant of humanity.
She met her devoted husband, Jesse, when they were children in Tabor City, North Carolina. Their nearly forty years of marriage stood as “a fortress”—a living testament to their steadfast, joyful, and faith-rooted love. Together they created not only a home but a sanctuary—filled with laughter, deep conversation, and belonging.
Music was the heartbeat of Tangela’s life—not merely a talent but a calling. Her voice carried the joy of her spirit and the healing power she believed God placed in song. She shared that gift generously as a member of numerous choirs, including the One Human Family Workshops Choir. For Tangela, such music was prayer, celebration, and ministry. Whether standing before a choir or humming in her kitchen as she baked bread, she used her voice as a bridge—reminding people that we are all reflections of one light.
Also a lifelong student of healing arts and an inspired creator, Tangela explored fiber arts, writing, film, and any craft that allowed her to express the wonder she perceived in the world. She was equally devoted to nurturing the spiritual life of her community and serving in administrative capacities. As a teacher of religious studies and philosophy, she offered wisdom with humility and compassion. She equally welcomed truth-seekers, doubters and the faithful of every background. She listened without judgment and loved without condition.
She believed life was too short “not to enjoy tea” and that “love was meant to be shared.” Everyone who met her felt seen, valued, and loved. Her gentle presence and radiant smile could soften any heart, dissolve tension, and remind others that joy was always possible. Her grace, quiet strength, and dignity uplifted everyone around her.
Tangela joins in the Heavenly Kingdom her parents and stepfather—Marvella Myers, Owen Bair, and Herbert Baldwin—as well as her younger sister Tiriah Scott and many beloved relatives and friends.
She is survived by her husband Jesse; their children Jessamyn and Gabriel; her chosen daughter Maryam; her sister Tracy Baldwin; her brother Herbert Baldwin; and her nieces and nephews Myles, Emily, Ashleigh, Noah, Bella, Londyn, and Kerrington, along with countless extended family and cherished friends who carry her light forward.
Tangela was grateful to be loved by many, just as she was grateful to love many. Her spirit—joyful, generous, and endlessly radiant—will forever illuminate the hearts of all who cherish her memory. Even to her final breath, she reflected the luminous principles of unity and love that had guided her life.
Now as a bird freed from its earthly cage, may Tangela’s soul continue to soar through the worlds of God, her service now exalted and unbound—ministering with greater power in both realms, and drawing her ever-near to Our Beloved Creator.
Watch Events
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Causes close to Tangela's heart are listed below if you feel called to donate in her honor.
Please note that the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States does not accept or solicit contributions from the general public - registered members of the Bahá’í Faith may use the link below for options to donate.
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Memory Wall
I’ve heard of the passing of our dearest friend Tangela. Mary has told me yesterday that she was in hospice and I’ve been praying for her the past 24 hours.
For the last day I have been looking at pictures of some of our times together and it brought such joy to my heart. She was truly such an amazing and special soul and I am incredibly honored and grateful that God crossed our paths in this life. She brought everlasting joy to my life and I will cherish these memories forever.
Tangela and you will always have a very special place in my heart. I will keep her soul in my prayers in the coming days and am so sure that she’s is being welcomed with open arms into the Abha Kingdom. I imagine her singing in the spiritual world right now.
Sending you so much love brother. Please always feel free to reach out and feel hugged.
Sincerely,
Aaron
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