Obituary of Carida Wade Settles

Carida “Bootsy” Settles was born to the late Judith Pauline Coleman and Walter Settles. A true Washingtonian and educated in the DC Public School System. From the passing of her mother, Carida took on a path that led to hardships throughout her adolescent years. During her late 20’s she began to turn her life around and make changes that would create a better life for herself and daughter. Her aspiration in life was to be a substance abuse counselor and buying a house with an attachment beside it for her daughter and granddaughter. Carida had a personal relationship with the Lord and spoke to Him and about Him daily, thanking Him for all He has done in her life! 

Carida devoted time to her granddaughter/daughter and with them her life was complete. She wanted them with her every second, and if they weren’t, she made sure to call them a hundred times throughout the day. Well known as “Gammy” by her loving granddaughter, she made sure to attend every school performance, stepup ceremony/graduation, dance showcase, and birthday (especially birthdays). Gammy wanted nothing but the best for her granddaughter, and she made sure if nothing else she was happy and loved. They shared a bond so strong that it will never be replaced. The simplest pleasures brought great joy in her life, and she loved having her bonus grandson Devyn, extended nieces/nephews over her when she was “feeling good”. 

Carida enjoyed drinking coffee while lying in bed or on the couch watching crimes shows (Law and Order), low budget movies (lol) and Lifetime. She would tell EVERYBODY she talked to “It’s a good movie coming on at 8 o’clock. She also loved talking and being on the phone. If you were close to her, you got a phone call almost every day and sometimes in the wee hours of the morning when she would wake for a snack or coffee. Her favorite lines were “Brittni make some coffee” or “mama you sure you know how to make my coffee, one scoop of coffee, 3 creams, 2 sugars”, “go to the store and get me this and that”. Along with watching her favorite movies/shows her favorite pastime was online shopping. She even did it in her sleep. 

Carida can be defined as “Queen Mother”. She embodied love and valued family and friends. She opened her home to many throughout the years, providing not only food/shelter but love, support, advice, and so much laughter. She loved holidays especially the ones she when she received gifts(lol). Her requests were simple to most, as if she didn’t already have hundreds of each; slippers, coffee cups, robes, pajamas, or perfume, but from her daughter she would request mostly jewelry. She definitely had a giving spirit so in turn she always gave back, and it didn’t have to be your birthday or special holiday. Quite a few of you can testify to that and have gifts to cherish from our sweet lady. 

There is so much so say about a lady that went through so much yet gave all she could. Carida made sure to let everyone she cared for, know that they were loved by her no matter what. She may curse you out and literally after that end with I love you. That right there speaks volumes of her character. So, take that as a lesson and no matter what you are dealing with make sure you let people know how much you love them while they are able to hear it. Her memories will be forever cherished and forever in our hearts. 

Carida peacefully transitioned to her new home on May 16, 2021 and is preceded by her parents, brother Leonard Stewart, sister Davita Coleman and nephew Bryenton Rembert. She leaves to cherish her memories: one and only daughter Brittni Settles (devoted son in law Musa Jawara), granddaughter Aziyah Jawara, bonus grandson Devyn Barnes and loyal companion Jerry Murray; Siblings Lewis Stewart (Tamera Stewart), Walter Settles, Walter Settles Jr., Angela Settles, Michelle Settles, and Valerie Settles-Charles(John Charles). Nieces and nephews; Shannon Settles, Devan Settles, Kracik Settles, Ronald Clipper, Chauncey Settles, Nicholas Settles, Jonní Charles, and Johnnetta Charles. Great nephew Tyjion Settles, great nieces Ar’miya Settles, Aaliyah Settles, and Malaysia Clipper. Her home care aide Abeba Desta (Desta), Extended daughters; LaKeisha Barnes, Jasmine Barnes, Tanjanyca Fairley, Brittney Gerald, Mic-eal Harper, a host of godkids, loved ones and extended nieces/nephews that call her Aunt Bootsy.