It is with deep love and gratitude that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, family member, and friend, Raymond Henry Manson, Sr., who departed peacefully on June 24, 2026, at the age of 93.

Born in Sutherland, Virginia, Raymond grew up with a strong sense of duty, integrity, and compassion. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, earning the respect of his fellow service members and the gratitude of a nation. His courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to his comrades were hallmarks of his character.

Following his military service, Raymond dedicated many years of hard work to the railroad industry, where he proudly served as a member of the Amtrak team until his retirement in 1999. He never missed an opportunity to jokingly remind family and friends that he no longer had to "plow that mule." He took great pride in his work ethic and in the career, he built through dedication and perseverance.

Raymond will be fondly remembered for his famous liver and onions, his corny jokes, his generous spirit, and his impeccable sense of style. Time spent with him was always filled with laughter, fellowship, wisdom, and unforgettable memories. His warm smile, kind heart, and love for his family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Jerome Manson, Sheryl Manson, Marcella Manson, and Anthony Manson; his bonus children, Lorna Hill and Earl Hill (Juanita); his beloved grandchildren: Tracey Hall-Barnes (Terry), Kwajalein Johnson (Jessica), Meosha Hall (Lamont), Traquan Ellis (Kenyatta), Keisha Lewis, Byron Vinson, Clifford Vinson (Thuy), Rokasha Leach (Deon), Symone Prosise (Terell), and Talama Vinson; his longtime cousin and dear friend, Lee Crowel; along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever treasure his stories, laughter, and the many lessons he imparted throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henrietta Manson and John Manson, Sr.; his brothers, Lawrence Manson and John Preston Manson, Jr.; his children, Rose Mary Hall, Raymond Manson, Jr., and Andrea Manson; and his beloved life partner, Daisey Mae Jennings.

Raymond spent the last year of his life in the loving care of Moving with a Touch of Love, where he was affectionately known as "Papa." The staff cared for him with extraordinary compassion, dignity, and kindness, and they truly became an extension of our family. We will be forever grateful for the exceptional love and care they provided.

Grandpa, your service, your love, and your legacy will live on in our hearts forever. Though you are no longer with us, your strength, laughter, wisdom, and enduring spirit will continue to guide us. We find comfort in knowing that your life was one of purpose, honor, and unconditional love.

Rest in eternal peace.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

A memorial service will be held 5:00 P.M., Saturday, July 18, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Damion T. Batts, eulogist.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.