Elton Dean Manuel

Elton Dean Manuel was born February 22, 1957 to Mary Louise and Rev. Milton Delbert Manuel in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the second born of three boys, and affectionately known as "Burt" with his brothers.

Elton accepted Christ at a young age. As a youth Elton excelled in academics as well as music and sports, playing trumpet in junior high, playing football as well as finding success as a champion on the wrestling mat before graduating from Emmerich Manual High School in 1976. Along with his physical strength, Elton had an equally strong work ethic which saw him serve in several leadership positions over the years including: Wishard Hospital, Target Warehouse, Aldi Foods, and Dollar Tree. He was an avid fitness enthusiast, and remained competitive in things like table tennis, weightlifting, tennis, and more. He loved motorcycles and you could see his infectious smile and personality when he rode his Suzuki Boulevard M109. He was an avid music fan, and you could often catch him listening to and singing songs from his youth.

Elton met the love of his life, Diana Smith, in November of 1999 on Yahoo Chat, and in 2009 moved from Indianapolis and made their home in Surprise, AZ. The two were joined in holy matrimony on May 21, 2010.

Of the many qualities he possessed, Elton was best known for his fierce resilience and quiet strength in the face of adversity. These are characteristics and qualities that he shared with all of his children. This was evermore present when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, which he fought valiantly for eight years.

On October 17, 2023, surrounded by loved ones, Elton Dean Manuel transitioned from this earthly service to receive his heavenly reward. Elton was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Milton Manuel.

Elton leaves to cherish his legacy and memory his loving wife, Diana, his mother, Mary Manuel, his brothers Ellery Manuel and Ethan Manuel (Patricia) of Indianapolis, his children: Taiwan Manuel, Robert Clark (Tinisha), Sara Tyson (Drew), Brandi Manuel, Carlotta Smith (Kat), Ebonee Manuel, Charles "Skimo" Smith (Amber), Brandon Manuel, Chasity Herber, Erica Manuel, and Julie Smith; eighteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a host of beloved family and friends.