Paul G. Manna

Paul G. Manna, 82, a longtime resident of Sterling, retired Massachusetts Army National Guard, Command Sergeant Major, dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away Tuesday, June 18th 2024, with family gathered at his bedside.

Paul was born in Worcester, the son of Genario J. and Celia J. (Ignatowski) Manna. Raised in Worcester, Paul graduated from Commerce High School and joined the U.S. Marine Corps, serving his country proudly as a member of the Marine second division for four years. Upon release from duty, Paul joined the Massachusetts Army National Guard, raising in the ranks and positions over the next 29 years retiring as the State Command Sergeant Major. 

 Paul began his working career, as an RCA TV repair technician for Vin’s T.V. in Shrewsbury, then for over 30 years as a corrections Officer, Health and Environmental Inspector for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department before retiring. 

 Paul is survived by his wife and best friend of 23 years Jane A. (Simonatis) Manna; a son, Paul G. Manna, Jr.: three daughters, Angela Boss, Maria Manna, and Debra Manna; Jane’s children, Steven D. Solomon and his wife Amy, Jody Marie Gaucher and her husband Mike; nine grandchildren, Tricia, Randy and his wife Mei, Kassidy, Justin, Sarah, Dan, Nikki and Kaci; great grandchildren; Austin, Blake, Chase, Eli, Eliana and Mila; nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many friends. A sister, Judy F. Hesselton and nephew, David Hesselton predeceased him.

Paul was all military, a dedicated Marine, Mass Army national guard enlisted soldier, member of the American Legion Grafton Hill and Vernon Hill Posts, and an integral life member of the Worcester Detachment of the Marine Corps league. Paul loved his marine roots and the MCL, where he was a life member, former commandant, bar manager, and volunteer who had a hand in all aspects of its success. Paul has been a life member since 1975. He will be sorely missed by his comrades at the MCL. Paul also enjoyed camping with Jane, along the Cape Cod Canal, fishing for Lobsters, playing the Mandolin, Karaoke, and being in the company of his friends. 

 Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Sunday, June 30th from 3 pm to 6 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral service will be held Monday July 1st at 11 am in the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will be in Mt View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the Worcester Detachment of the MCL, 181 Lake Ave. Worcester 01604