Treasured wife, daughter, sister, and friend Angelina Cuchillo Bridges (née Valdez) passed away on September 25, 2024, at the age of 55. Born on January 19, 1969, at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, Angie was the daughter of Carmen Cuchillo Valdez, who hailed from Spain, and Antonio G. Valdez Jr., a fourth-generation Texan. She spent her formative years in Seabrook, Texas, where she attended Clear Lake High School and completed her cosmetology license in 1988.
Angie's journey took a remarkable turn in 1992 when she met Jeffery Kent Bridges during a game of darts. The couple married on March 11, 1995, in Houston and moved to San Antonio the following year. Their passion for the beverage industry led them to open Wines, Etc. in Stone Oak in 1998, and they later founded Copa Wine Bar in April 2005, where Angie's culinary creativity contributed significantly to its acclaim.
Copa Wine Bar thrived under Angie's guidance, receiving numerous accolades, including being named Best Wine Bar and Best Wine List for five consecutive years by both the San Antonio Current and Express-News. The establishment also earned the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, reflecting Angie's commitment to excellence in the culinary arts. In 2000, Angie and Jeff initiated Taste of the Northside, an event dedicated to showcasing local businesses while benefiting the Brighton Center, which provides essential services to children with disabilities.
Angie & Jeff Bridges at Copa Wine Bar. Image courtesy of Embark Marketing.
The inaugural Taste of the Northside raised over $6,000, and today, the event generates more than $100,000 annually for the Brighton Center, demonstrating Angie's enduring impact on the community. By 2003, Taste of the Northside had become an official Fiesta event, with Angie crowned as the first 'Queen of the Vine.' Her passion for culinary exploration was evident in her belief that food encompassed not just flavors, but also the rich history and culture behind each dish.
Angie after she was crowned Queen of the Vine in 2003. Photo courtesy of Sherry Lynn via Facebook.
Angie's Spanish heritage inspired her to win the San Antonio Paella competition in 2015, and she further enriched the local culinary scene by introducing Poke through the launch of Poke Planet in 2018. Many in the community became familiar with Angie through her contributions to local television shows and publications, such as the local Stone Oak Highlights where she shared her culinary expertise and love for food with readers each month through her favorite recipes.
Angie's spirit will forever resonate with those who regarded her as a best friend and advocate. Her unwavering commitment to helping others, both human and animal, formed the essence of her remarkable legacy. 'Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion,' she often quoted from her beloved film, Steel Magnolias, encapsulating her unique blend of humor and empathy.
A funeral and celebration of life will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Tripoint, located at 3233 N. St. Mary’s St. #102, San Antonio, TX 78212. The service will also be available via live stream for those unable to attend in person. In lieu of flowers, donations in Angie’s memory can be made to the Animal Defense League at www.adltexas.org. Those who wish to leave a memory or comment can do so here.