Ralph Manuel Jr.

Ralph Manuel Jr., affectionately known as "Soul Train" to family members and friends, was born on January 6, 1943, in Eastman, Georgia-Dodge County. He was the son of Ralph Manuel Sr. And Mittie B. Hopkins-Manuel.
Ralph relocated to Newark, New Jersey during his teenage years with his oldest sister and brother-in-law, Hattie B. And Roosevelt C. Robinson.
While in Newark, NJ, in his early 20's, Ralph met and married Gertrude Manuel, and to this union three daughters were born: Silvia Manuel, Barbara Ann Richmond, and Heilda Manuel.
Shortly after, Ralph relocated to Paterson, NJ, and that is where he made his home. He remained there for over 55 years.
He was a very hard worker. He was employed at Two Bridges Country Club in Fairfield, NJ for several years, Vanguard Metal-Paterson, and ShopRite- Palisades Park, before retiring. Ralph was a jack of all trades!
He was always known for being a well-dressed man. Ralph always dressed to impress. He will always be remembered for wearing his infamous hats. He also loved to dance and was the life of the party! He was a showstopper. You could always find him hanging out and having a good time at the Masonic Temple, Mr. Hicks Bar and the M&S Tavern. He even rented an apartment and lived upstairs from the M&S for years!
Ralph loved his entire family and made sure he showed each one of them love. Whenever he was around them, he showed it and made sure they knew it. In the summer Ralph would always be found on the grill with his red apron on, grilling, and talking smack, while laughing and drinking his favorite; a Country Club Beer chilled over ice (and don't forget his shot!) His infamous saying was "Pat, bring out what you want me to cook next!"
On Thursday January 18, 2024, Ralph departed this life and traded labor for reward.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Manuel Sr. And Mittie B. Hopkins-Manuel, 2 daughters; Heilda Manuel and Barbara Ann Richmond, sisters, Hattie Beatrice Robinson, Annie Maude Davis "Baby Sister", and Daisey Beard, two brothers, "Twins" Ralph, and George Ralph, and brothers-in-law; Roosevelt C. Robinson, and Thurman Davis "Dump".
Left to cherish precious memories are his daughter; Silvia Manuel of Newark, NJ, sisters; Helen Carole Porter "Nuke" of Eastman GA, Hattie Lou Jackson of Detroit MI, and Rose Lee Williams of Macon, GA, ten grandchildren; Kareema, Yasimina, Medina, Shafequa, Kaseem, Shanae, Tiffany, Malikah, Rajohn, and Samira Manuel, brother in law; Willie Frank Porter "Preacher", of Eastman GA, and Tillman Williams of Macon GA, 15 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.