Natalie Kathleen Stoute was born on March 22, 1967, on the gorgeous islands of Trinidad & Tobago.  She was born at Port of Spain General Hospital to parents Helina & Lenox. Helina soon immigrated to the United States in search of opportunity, and young Natalie remained in Trinidad in the loving care of her beloved aunt, Pearl Stoute, affectionately known as “Big Pearl”. From a young age, Natalie carried the warm & vibrant Trini spirit of culture and resilience within her.

Natalie grew up at 2A Independence Square alongside her big brother Michael, cousin Lisa & cousin Chet, surrounded by the love and guidance of her extended family. As a young girl, Natalie also helped Ms. Kim Asoon with her spice business, proudly earning her own small stipend while learning the value of responsibility and hard work.

From an early age, Natalie’s beautiful voice set her apart. She sang in the children’s choir at her local Catholic church, where she discovered her love and natural gift for music. Singing quickly became a defining thread throughout her life, and she was affectionately nicknamed “songbird”. Her voice was rich and angelic. It brought joy and inspiration to everyone who heard it. Natalie attended Nelson Street Girls’ School and later graduated from Saint Francois Girls’ College with high honors. In April of 1985, she immigrated to the United States to pursue her college education and new opportunities.

Once in America, Natalie reunited with her siblings in Brooklyn, NY. Early in life, they made a promise to one another to always remain close, & they honored that commitment throughout the years. Their relationships were full of laughter, and Natalie carried deep love for each of her brothers and sisters throughout her days.

Music was a constant companion in Natalie’s life, and one of her most unforgettable nights was an open mic night at a jazz spot called Nell’s. A once-in-a-lifetime chance to sing backup for the legendary Phyllis Hyman during an impromptu performance. Moments like this perfectly captured Natalie’s fearless love of music and the magic that seemed to follow her.

In College, Natalie worked as a women’s gym instructor, modeled for David’s Bridal, and pursued her passion for science as president of the marine biology club. She was also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha. At the age of twenty-five, she graduated from Baruch College with a degree in accounting, received her United States citizenship, and became a disciple.

In 1992, Natalie was introduced to the church community that would become her spiritual home. One of the most beloved memories among family and friends was the iconic duet she shared in church with her sister Nichole, singing His Eye Is on the Sparrow. It was at church in 1996 that Natalie met Edward Ford, where their shared faith quickly blossomed into love. The two were married on May 3, 1997, at the Church of the Resurrection. Together, they built a beautiful family rooted in faith, love, and devotion.

In the summer of 1998, they welcomed their first daughter, Emily. At Christmastime the following year, they welcomed Elisha, and in December of 2002, their youngest daughter, Aiver (Erin) Ford, completed their family. Natalie was deeply devoted to her daughters, and everyone who knew her understood that she was meant to be a girl mom. She poured her heart into raising her girls with patience, love, and wisdom. A naturally gifted teacher, Natalie homeschooled her three girls, dedicating herself fully to their growth and development.

Natalie was also a deeply relational person who loved building community and serving others. She cultivated a thriving circle of sister-friends through her church and personal relationships, welcoming all with warmth and open arms. If you needed a wedding singer, food for a church event, or a ride home, Natalie was always the one to call. Her personality had a warmth and sincerity that touched people deeply.

For three years, Natalie courageously battled glioblastoma, an extremely aggressive form of brain cancer. Throughout her illness, she continued to demonstrate extraordinary faith, strength, and grace, inspiring those around her with her resilience and unwavering trust in God. Natalie passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by loved ones, on the morning of March 9, 2026.

She is survived by her faithful husband, Edward; her three beautiful daughters, Emily, Elisha, and Aiver (Erin); her mother, Helina Stoute; her siblings Michael, Emanuel, Wayne, Kesho, Roderick Jr., Nichole, Vicky, Kai and a large and loving extended family of relatives, church family, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Like a true songbird, her melody of faith, love, and devotion will never fade.

Though Natalie’s voice may no longer sing in our presence, the song she left in our hearts will continue to echo for generations. 

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