NEWARK, N.J. – Felix McManus was born on January 28, 1923, in Edgefield, S.C., the first of Isaac and Essie Stevens McManus’ twelve children. Felix was called “Bud” by family and “Mac” by some of his friends.

At an early age, Felix joined Willow Spring Baptist Church in Edgefield and served until relocating to Newark.

He received his formal education in the Edgefield County Public Schools, graduating from Edgefield County High School in Johnston, S.C. in 1941. He enrolled in South Carolina State College(now known as South Carolina State University) in Orangeburg. Shortly after, during World War II, he was called to military duty. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1943 – 1946.

Felix married Effie Mae Byrd on Christmas Day, 1950. They migrated north, settling in Newark. Over the years the family grew to include three daughters and one son. Felix worked for Trinity Paper Company and 20^th Century Cab Company for many years before going out on his own into the dry cleaning and tailoring business.

Felix and Effie were devout Christians and a member of The Church of Light. He was ordained under the leadership of Bishop Arthur A. Cole and became the assistant pastor. Later years, he succeeded Rev. Eugene J. Robinson as pastor.

Rev. McManus was passionate about growing the congregation, especially, bringing young people into the church. And he was devoted to its elder members, as well as the senior citizens in his community outside the church.

How fitting that a man who worked earnestly his whole life, completing his final task – letting go of his earthly life on Labor Day. Funeral Services were held September 17, 2015, at Christ Church in Montclair, N.J.

Rev. McManus was predeceased by his wife, Essie, as well as siblings Gladys, Edward, Joseph, Lawrence and Talmadge. He leaves behind daughters, Janis, Karen and Alexandra, son, Benjamin; sisters, Cornelia McManus, Doris Freeman, Reba Dixon, Juanita Robinson and Cassandra McManus; brothers, Gilmore McManus(Diane) and Bobby McManus(Marjorie; grandsons Erin and Ellery; great-grandson, Jordan; one aunt, Hazel Stevens along with numerous nephews, nieces and cousins as well as many devoted friends.