Angola Makambo

Angola Makambo, affectionately known as Papa Makambo, was born on December 6, 1946 in the city of Leopoldville in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

His father left the town of Makela/Angola, fleeing Portuguese colonial oppression to the neighboring country of the Belgian Congo, now the modern day Democratic Republic of Congo.
Angola always dreamed of being in the military, and at the age of 16, his father sent him to the Military School in Congolese Army. Two years later at the age of 18, the brave and dedicated young Joseph was transferred to a special commando military academy, and later transferred to the Kota-Koli base as an instructor.

In 1973, the FNLA led by President Holden Roberto asked Zairian President Mobutu to authorize the compulsory military recruitment of Angolan refugees in Zaire. The request was accepted. President Holden also asked for support for the training of special commands for ELNA (National Liberation Army of Angola), which President Mobutu also accepted by supporting with three of his special commandos as instructors, including Makambo Angola. Training and formation of special troops at Kinkuzu Military Base, the contract signed between Mobutu and Holden of the three instructor special commandos would be for only six months. Having completed the agreed period, Angola Makambo refused to return to the Zairian Army on the ground of fighting side by side with his Angolan compatriots and contributing to the liberation and independence of his country, Angola.

In 1974, he was transferred to the provinces of Benguela and Huambo. Considering the political and military situation at that time, Angola Makambo left Angola for Namibia, and then Botswana.

In 1982, the United States granted him special refugee status and allowed him to emigrate to America. In the city of Philadelphia, Angola Makambo met his love, sweetheart and future wife, Christiane Kailly, whom he passionately and lovingly called "Mere" or "Maman (Mother)." They were married on August 8, 1995. After coming to the United States, he found work in hospitality, manufacturing, constructions, and Sky Chefs.

Angola Makambo was a very cheerful and charismatic man. In the hearts of those who came across to him, he always had a soft smile for everyone who approached him.

On February 4, 2024, Angola Makambo was called home to rest. He leaves to mourn his loving wife of 28 years, Christiane Kailly; his daughters, Annabellah Griffin, and Ceres "Cece" Victoire Niombella; his granddaughter, Ruth Ann Griffin; and many family and friends who will miss him and cherish their memories.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 10:00 am at Newcomer Funeral Home - East Orlando Chapel, 895 S. Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, with Pastor Gabriel Ipasu officiating.

For those unable to attend the service, a livestream will be available by clicking here and will be able to be seen for up to 90 days after the service.

Viewing and visitation will take place on Friday, February 23 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.


Interment will be in Edgewood-Greenwood Cemetery, Apopka, FL.

To share your memories of Angola, or leave a special message of condolence for his family, please visit the guestbook below.