Cassandra L. Manuel

The Life & Legacy of
Cassandra (Sandy) Lonesome Manuel
Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
– Proverbs 3:17-18
Cassandra Lonesome Manuel, affectionately known to all as "Sandy", was born on July 10, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Milton (Buddy) Lonesome and Helen (Faulcon) Lonesome. Cassandra was the eldest of two children and an exemplary role model to her brother, Michael.
Sandy was reared in East Orange, New Jersey. She attended East Orange Public Schools, graduating from Columbian Junior High School and East Orange High School. She was a proud member of the "Great Class of 1964". Sandy pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature/Education from Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey where she was named "Who's Who Among Students". Sandy was a conscientious student, who excelled in her studies becoming a Dean's List Scholar. She went on to earn her Master of Arts in Reading and a Reading Specialist Certification from Montclair State College.
In 1970, Sandy was married to Jesse Banks and their union was blessed with two lovely daughters Kimberly Janel and Cassandra Michele.
Sandy loved being a native of East Orange, New Jersey. She taught English literature and dedicated her professional life to educating the students at her alma mater, East Orange High School from 1979 until her retirement in 2011. During that same timespan, Sandy also served as an Adjunct Professor at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey.
In 1989, Sandy was introduced to James (Jimmie) Manuel at a social gathering. Upon discovering that they were both from East Orange they instantly connected
and fostered a friendly rivalry since Jimmie attended Clifford J. Scott High School and Sandy attended East Orange High School. In 1991, Jimmie and Sandy were joined in holy matrimony and formed a beautiful, blended family including Jimmie's son, Dennis Jay. Together, they brought up their family in Union, New Jersey.
Sandy treasured a wonderful marriage with Jimmie. Everyone who interacted with them could feel the genuine love and support they shared. Their children's friends enjoyed being in their presence. They were generous, fun, and hosted the most unforgettable basement parties at their home. When Sandy retired in 2011, they moved "down the shore" to Barnegat, New Jersey. Jimmie wanted to be able to fish frequently and it was Sandy's dream to reside close to the beach. While a member of the Mirage Retirement Community, Sandy resumed writing poetry and short stories. She also served as a member of the community's African American Club.
Sandy was passionate about the art of writing and her literary accomplishments are impressive. Her short stories and poems have appeared in writers' magazines including: "The Story of Ramon", "The Story of John", "My Sister's Keeper", "Smelling Herself", and "Mourning Time".
Sandy was one of a kind. She loved her family and friends unconditionally. She always spoke with wisdom and sincere instruction. Sandy enjoyed life and believed in working hard and playing even harder. She was blessed to be a blessing to others. Sandy was an earthly angel freely extending herself and touching a multitude of people along her life's journey. She will truly be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing her. Sandy transitioned from this earthly world on December 3, 2023. She was predeceased in death by her father, Milton Lonesome, husband Jimmie, son Dennis, and grandson, Samaad.
Sandy leaves to cherish her memory: her mother, Helen Lonesome; her brother Michael Lonesome; daughters, Kimberly Banks and Cassandra Wilson (Andrew); stepsisters; Alison and Sheila; daughter-in-law, Samantha; grandchildren: Jamal (JD), Isaiah, Carlos, Brandon, Tiffany, Nyle, Bailey, and Emerie; nephews: Jamal, Michael Jr. and Nate; nieces: Kiersten, Mysba, and Maiya. She also leaves a host of great grandchildren, cousins, and special friends.
Acknowledgements
The family of Cassandra "Sandy" Manuel will remember and cherish your many expressions of love, sympathy and prayers so graciously extended.
Thank you and may God bless you.