James A. Manzano Sr., known lovingly to family and friends as Jim, passed away on March 6, 2026, at his home in Lady Lake, Florida. He was 89 years old.
Born on October 7, 1936, in New York City, Jim was one of ten children. He proudly served his country in the United States Army before returning home to build a life rooted in hard work and devotion. On December 7, 1959, he married the love of his life, Lydia, and together they built a family and a partnership that would endure for over sixty-six years.
Jim dedicated thirty years of service as a lineman with Consolidated Edison, a career that reflected his tireless work ethic and steady reliability. A true jack of all trades, there was little he could not do and even less he would not attempt. He was a tough cookie with the biggest heart, always the first to offer a helping hand whenever a neighbor was in need.
Beyond his professional life, Jim was a man of remarkable sporting talent. He was a formidable pool shark, rolled a perfect game in bowling, and recorded three holes in one on the golf course. His passions for golf, bowling, billiards, and, above all, family filled his life with joy and laughter.
Jim was preceded in death by his son, Thomas, and his daughter, Anjanette. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lydia; his sons, Mark and James Jr.; and a large extended family who will carry his memory forward with pride.
In his spirit of quiet faith, we find comfort in the words of the 23rd Psalm: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.”
Services will be held on March 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. with Visitation at 2:00 p.m., both at Beyers Funeral Home and Crematory in Lady Lake, Florida.