Eddie Walter Manuel's Obituary
Eddie Walter Manuel was born on January 2, 1947, in Blakely, Georgia, to Lucille Manuel and Charles Jones. He later moved north, where he graduated from Central High School in Newark, New Jersey, in 1964. A dedicated and hardworking man, Eddie began his career as a technician and installer with Bell Telephone while continuing his education. In 1976, he graduated from DeVry Institute and was hired by the State of New Jersey as an Electrical Engineer, where he worked installing street lighting.
In 1978, Eddie's life took a dramatic turn when his work vehicle was struck by another truck while he was on the job, resulting in serious injuries. From that adversity, he demonstrated remarkable resilience. A cash settlement from the incident enabled him to invest in real estate, where he went on to achieve substantial success and financial stability as a landlord throughout the early 1980s and into the early 1990s.
In 2000, Eddie returned to public service, accepting a position with the City of Irvington as a Housing Inspector. He served in that role until retiring in 2017, earning respect for his knowledge, integrity, and dedication to his community.
Eddie was predeceased by his beloved wife of 44 years, Shirley Manuel, who passed away on October 5, 2008, due to complications from multiple sclerosis. Their marriage stood as a testament to enduring love, partnership, and devotion.
He is survived by his two brothers, Charlie Jones and Arthur Hightower; his two sons, Edward Manuel, Jr. and Michael Manuel; eleven grandchildren-Rekia Witcliff, Viktoria Soileau, Aishah O'Connell, Qayyim Muhammed, Asia Manuel, Najaala Tucker, Michael Manuel, Jr., Jaden Manuel, Gabrelle Manuel, Shirley Jasmine Manuel, and Ashley Banks- twelve great-grandchildren and a host of cousins that were as close as siblings. Eddie Walter Manuel leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, hard work, and commitment to family that will live on through all who knew and loved him.
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