Mrs. Bertha Lee Funderburg Manuel affectionately known as “Lucy” was born on February 15, 1938 in Santee, South Carolina to the late Lincoln and Nellie Funderburg. Bertha loved the Lord and accepted Christ early in life as a member of Chapel Hill Baptist Church. Bertha received her formal early education in Santee, South Carolina. Excited to grow and expand her dimensions of life, she moved to Jacksonville, Florida with her sister and partner in adventure, the late Thelma Funderburg Washington.
Upon moving to Jacksonville, Bertha attended and graduated from The New Stanton High School Class of 1955. She continued her general education studies at Edward Waters College where she majored in Home Economics. Jacksonville became the foundation where Bertha grew her life and family. She was a generous soul, talented cook, and had a passion for helping others especially children.
Her gifts were amplified as she worked in the food service department for Duval County Public Schools. After 34 years of dedicated service, she retired on July 19, 1993.
During her summers, she continued to give of her talents as she was a part of the Culinary team at Keystone Camp located in Brevard, North Carolina. Bertha dedicated 44 years of service to this summer program and she graced the Camp with her signature smile and warm heart filled with love.
God in his infinite wisdom saw fit to call Mrs. Bertha Lee Manuel from this life on Saturday, June 6, 2020 to rest in peace.
Bertha leaves to cherish her memories her devoted children, Lopest Manuel, Rickey Manuel (Veronica), Tracey Manuel, and Girardeau Manuel; a host of 9 amazing grandchildren: Pakeitha Manuel, Rickey Manuel Jr, Eddie Manuel, James Stanford, Jarvaris Stanford, Mernel Mervin, Mernae Mervin, Benwah Wilson, and Mireon Freeman; a host of 12 amazing great grandchildren: Eniyah Manuel, Chyna, Parrish Johnson, Eriana Manuel, Eddie Manuel Jr, Errin Manuel, Jamila Stanford, Jalaya Stanford, Miaisa Johnson, James Stanford, and Chase Sanford; one sister, Nellie Goodwin of Santee South Carolina; one brother, James Stanford; a host of other nieces, nephews, and other sorrowing relatives, among them our South Carolina Family and many friends.
The funeral service for Bertha Lee Manuel will be held 11:00 am Saturday, June 20th, 2020 at the Samuel C. Rogers Jr. Memorial Chapel 4315 N. Main Street Jacksonville, FL 32206. The visitation will be 5:00 - 7:00 pm, Friday, June 19th, 2020 at the Funerals by T.S. Warden 4315 North Main Street Jacksonville, FL 32206. Interment in Restlawn Cemeteries. Please sign the family guest book and view the video tribute @ www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden, FDIC, 4315 N. Main Street, 765-1234