Manuel “Manny” Joseph Jesus began his journey to heaven on April 16, 2018. God has taken him to his family and friends in heaven who will greet him with open arms and warm hearts. He left knowing Julia, his wife of 65 years, will be safe with their children Robert Jesus, Elizabeth Glenn, Cynthia Hoar and Diane Lynch, and their respective partners in life Lauren, Patrick, David, and especially Jim- who truly became Manny’s trusted friend, companion, and gentle caregiver. His granddaughters Kristi, Kelly, Julianne and Jillian, and his great-grandchildren Makayla, Aiden, Lillian and Amelia will miss their Papa, yet all know he was the very best husband, dad and grandfather ever. He loved deeply and lived by example- always being kind, sweet and giving, while hoping all shared in his joy and dance of life. He had a stern hand shake, a loving hug, and on occasion a rather big voice.
Manny worked hard each day of his working life to give to those he loved. In retirement, he enjoyed caring for his home, yard, helping others with projects and driving his granddaughters around town. He loved that best. As did they.
He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Cacilda Jesus, his brothers George, James and John, his In-laws Henrique and Candida Francisco, and his very special uncle Joaquin DaCosta. He leaves his only sister, Maria Joia, who always brought a smile to his face and his nephews Charles and James, nieces Selina and Ann, cousins, friends and many others, all so loved by him.
Manny came to America in 1946 from the Cape Verde Islands. He loved being from the islands, and always enjoyed sharing stories of the “old days.” Manuel took great pride in becoming a citizen of the United States, and yes, President JFK’s picture hung in the dining room right next to Jesus, what can we say? Manny and Julia enjoyed helping many migrate to America, to share in a better life, laughter and embracing family values in the Cape Verdean community. Their motto “save money and buy a three decker.” Manny never missed family events and certainly never missed the opportunity to dance to creole music.
His family would like everyone to know Manny loved life, playing jokes on others, going to the beach, picnics at Fuller Park and baking pies and turnovers. He took joy in knowing he taught his kids to ride their bikes, build snow tunnels, drive safely and fast, change tires, and most importantly love their mother. That was the #1 rule.
Manuel cherished his wife. She could do no wrong. He loved cooking and laundering for her, driving along with her in the car as she sat in the middle next to him, and cuddling with his wife every night. Their love was true love and their love will be evergreen. The legacy Manny set out to create has been beyond realized. His family with forever live in gratitude for his sacrifices and unconditional love.
Visiting hours will be held at the Conley Funeral Home 138 Belmont St. (rte. 123) Brockton on Thursday 4-8pm. The procession will gather at the funeral home on Friday at 8 am for a funeral Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 9am. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. The family requests that donations be made to Old Colony Hospice 321 Manley St. W. Bridgewater, MA 02379.