Obituary of Tommy Joe Manuel

Tommy J. Manuel of Fort Worth, Texas, died on May 21, 2024 after a short illness.

He was born on Christmas Day, 1933 to Norvel and Elbie Duncan Manuel.  He spent his early years in West Texas, leaving school early to work at an oil refinery and serve in the Texas National Guard.  He later enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served honorably in the Korean War, an experience that had a lasting impact on his life.

After returning from Korea and matriculating at a local business college, Tommy took a job selling automobiles which he parlayed over the years to owning and managing multiple dealerships throughout the Metroplex.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Rosalie Waters Manuel; his son, J. Kirk Manuel and his wife Rhonda, of Aledo, Texas; his daughter, Lisa Manuel of California; his grandson, Michael K. Manuel of Fort Worth; his sister, M. Rebecca McCreary of Fort Worth and numerous nephews and nieces.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Denzil Manuel and Jimmy Manuel.

A graveside service honoring Tommy will be held on Friday, June 7, at 9:15AM at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery (2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211). Guests should arrive 15 min prior, at 9:00AM.