Rev. Louis Rodolfo "Randy" Manon Jr.

Early Life and Education
Louis Rodolfo Manon, Jr. - known to most as Randy - was born on November 6, 1949, to the late Mae Louise Walker and Louis R. Manon Sr. He was one of eight children raised at 124 Bridge Street in the Borough of Malvern, in the very home that his father built with his own hands - a home where Randy would later raise his own children.
As a child, Randy attended St. Paul's AME Church with his mother. Years later, Randy returned to St. Paul's as an adult, reconnecting with the church to continue his spiritual journey in the community that helped mold and shape him in his formative years.
Heartbreak struck the family when Randy's youngest sister, Louise-affectionately known as 'Lolly'-passed away when he was just a little over 4. Randy and Lolly shared a deep bond, The loss forever changed the household and altered the course of his childhood, leaving an impact that stayed with him for years to come.
Randy excelled academically while attending Great Valley schools, graduating from high school in 1968 with a scholarship to Villanova University. Although he ultimately chose not to pursue higher education, his passion for knowledge and the English language remained unmistakable. His eloquent speech, extensive personal library, and remarkable memory reflected a deep intellectual prowess. What's more, he had an uncanny talent for recalling and seamlessly incorporating this wealth of knowledge into everyday conversation.
In his early adulthood, Randy faced significant personal challenges that brought periods of instability and hardship. This painful influence of unresolved trauma shaped his mindset and outlook, leading to choices and actions that negatively impacted both his life and the lives of those that loved him most.
Eventually, Randy found a path toward healing and growth through faith and service. Embracing the unconditional love of Christ, he experienced a transformation that brought peace and purpose. His life is a testament to the complexity of the human experience and the profound importance of compassion, understanding, and redemption.
Family Life
In the summer of 1968, Randy married Robin Whitt. Though their marriage eventually came to an end and both would later remarry, their lives remained connected by the mutual love and respect for the family they shared.
In 1980, Randy met Renee Holmes-and, as he fondly put it, "she just never left." The two were married on September 13, 1986, and over the course of 37 years, their relationship blossomed into a beautiful, enduring partnership -one marked by love, resilience, and deep devotion-until her passing in October 2023.
Randy and Renee shared a heart for service and a calling to care for others. Their home was a haven-always open, always welcoming, even when conditions in and around the home were challenging. Whether offering a warm meal, a temporary place to stay, or simply a listening ear, they were known for "standing in the gap" for those in need. In their community, they became lovingly known as Uncle Randy and Aunt Renee, or Mommom and Poppop. But for two special individuals with whom they formed lasting bonds, they became "Mom and Dad."
Blessed with eight children and twenty-two grandchildren, Randy cherished his family above all. He wasn't perfect, but he led with love, grounded in faith and service. He wanted his children and grandchildren to know what really mattered: to love God, to love people, and to show up when it counts. And that's exactly what he strived to do -every single day.
Work History
Randy built his career over 34 years in the railroad industry. His journey began with Penn Central, an American railroad company that operated from 1968 to 1976. From there, he transitioned to Conrail, the successor to Penn Central, following the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Act of 1976. In 1982, he arrived at SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority, where he would spend the majority of his career. Throughout his time at SEPTA, he held various positions including Electrician, Shift Foreman, Supervisor, and Trainer for rail vehicle maintenance. He retired in November 2010 from SEPTA's Frazer Repair Facility as a Maintenance Manager, which was responsible for ensuring the reliable operation of the yard's trains, track systems, equipment, infrastructure and buildings.
Interests
From his early years all the way into adulthood Music was a lifelong passion, profoundly shaping his life. He learned to play guitar from his older brother, Bobby Walker, and from that moment on, his musical journey took flight. Countless stories have been shared about late-night jam sessions with Bobby in his Ardmore home, to DJing, and later performing in his own bands at various venues throughout the area. Music was more than a hobby for Randy-it was a language he used to connect with others and express his heart. He had an uncanny ability to pick up many instruments and play them by ear.
A true jack of all trades, Randy possessed a wide range of talents and a natural curiosity that led him to carpentry, electronics, car repair, and computers. He built the family's kitchen table, living room, and bedroom furniture by hand-even crafting a kid-sized waterbed for his youngest daughter in hopes it would encourage her to sleep in her own room. Around the house, Randy made most-if not all-of the repairs himself, and often extended that same helping hand to friends, neighbors, or anyone in need. For his children, he was the first call when something broke. One of his daughter's friends affectionately summed it up with a phrase that stuck: "Daddy Mae to the rescue."
Randy had an extraordinary ability to connect with people. He was never shy about striking up a conversation-often beginning with a casual comment and ending with a heartfelt invitation to church. A simple exchange at a checkout counter-"That'll be $4.99"-would often lead to, "That's an interesting accent or last name where's your family from?" and eventually, "Do you know Jesus? Why don't you come to my church?"
In quieter moments at home, Randy could be found enjoying a game of solitaire or chess on his phone while listening to Christian talk radio, and perhaps while sitting in his car. He also loved watching golf and baseball, often winding down with a game in the background.
Spiritual Life/History
In 1982, Randy gave his life to Christ, marking the beginning of his ministry. Music had always been a central part of his life, so it was only natural that his journey in ministry began through song. Randy embraced the opportunity to share the Word through music with the contemporary Christian ensemble, Promise. Over the course of eight years, the group performed more than 200 concerts, with Randy forming a deep bond with their director, Walt Lawsor, who became both a cherished friend and spiritual brother.
In 1988, under the pastorate of Rev. Charles H. Wood, Jr., Randy felt a strong calling to the ministry and began taking the necessary steps to deepen his walk with Christ. He enrolled at the Philadelphia Conference Ministerial Training Institute, which set him on the path to ordination. Randy chose to remain rooted in the community of St. Paul's A.M.E. Church in Malvern, where his heart was firmly planted. His commitment was evident as he was first appointed as a Local Deacon and, in 1996, elevated to Local Elder. Over the next 30 years, Randy faithfully served as an Associate Minister, guided by the pastoral leadership at St. Paul's.
With his strong musical background, Randy embraced the role of Minister of Music (when the need arose), directing both the Inspirational Chorus and the Youth Choir. Under his leadership, the choir was later renamed the Martin H. Anthony Ensemble, in honor of a fellow pillar of the church community. His leadership in music was more than a role; it was a calling.
He found great joy in composing and performing his own renditions of traditional hymns. One of his well-loved creations, Take Me Higher, was an uplifting version of I'm Pressing on the Upward Way. He also wrote original songs, including I'm Yours, Lord, the lyrics of which held such personal meaning that they were tucked inside the front cover of his Bible.
Through his distinctive Teacher-Preacher style and his music ministry, Randy sought to inspire all those he encountered. His rich voice-both speaking and singing-carried a unique and compelling quality that resonated deeply with many. In addition to his pastoral work, Randy was a passionate educator. He taught at the Bethlehem School of the Bible for six years and was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2005.
While Sunday worship was always a priority, in many ways, Sunday was just the beginning. Whether praying with strangers in a store or parking lot, offering a listening ear, or giving someone a ride-often after a quick stop home for dinner-he lived his faith in action.
On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Randy transitioned from this life at his home, surrounded by the love and presence of his children. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, we rejoice in knowing he is now resting in the eternal arms of his Savior, reunited with loved ones gone before, and hearing the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Randy was preceded in death by his beloved wife Renee, his parents Mae Louise and Louis Manon, and siblings Robert Walker, Emma Martin, Anna Ballard, Dorothoy Ballard, Freddy Ballard, Louise Manon,. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted sister, Yeshimabeit "Isabel" Rambow, and his children: Denise Bates, Tia Manon, Louis Manon (Erica), Terrance Richburg (Crystal), Christina Manon Melle (JP), Lillie Manon, Amber Turner (Emmers), and Shakia Manon. He is also lovingly remembered by two dear members of his chosen family, Jonathon Kurtz and Tina Jansen, who held a special place in his heart.
He was the proud grandfather of 22 grandchildren: Rashaad, Taylor, Robin, Kierra, Victoria, Owen, Matthew, Valerie, Gilbert, George, Omar, Semaj, Reece, Cassius, Carlos, Elijah, Nate, Xiona, Ziemeer, Yazzamai, John Louis, Grayson-and he leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Randy cherished his family and lived a life deeply rooted in love, faith, and service. A true servant of God, Randy unapologetically used every gift and talent to win souls and sow seeds of the Gospel-wherever he was, and with whomever he met.
Though he has departed this earthly life, we take comfort in knowing he now rests in the presence of the Lord, reunited with his beloved wife, family, and all those who preceded him. His legacy of faith, steadfastness and love will live on in all who knew him.
"Well done, good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord." -Matthew 25:21
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the St. Paul's AME Church, 225 Church Street, Malvern, PA 19355.
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