Manuel Ribeiro

Manuel “Manny” Ribeiro was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. Born in the small town of Casal Vieira, Portugal, just outside of the city of Fatima, Manny immigrated to the United States at just 18 years old to pursue his “American Dream.” Discovering a passion for hairstyling, Manny received his cosmetology license and became a talented and trusted hairdresser for over 30 years. A longstanding resident of Monmouth County, New Jersey, Manny was a fixture of the West End area of Long Branch, where he lived and worked most of his life.

Family members, friends, and clients alike would all agree that Manny was one of, if not the funniest person they knew. Never one to pass up the opportunity to tell a joke, Manny will forever be remembered for his quick wit. An incredible storyteller himself, he will continue to live on through the stories and memories that his loved ones will share and cherish for years to come.

While many knew Manny, not everyone is aware that in recent years, he wished to retire and spend his final years back home in Portugal. Although he was unable to achieve this dream in life, true to form, Manny found a way to return despite his passing—requesting that his final resting place be in Portugal. His family will honor this wish, finding comfort in knowing that even if not in life, at least in death, Manny has been able to make it back home.

Manny had a deep love for animals, especially his dogs, the late Jack and Duke. In fact, the bond between Manny and Duke was so strong that the two passed away on the same day, within one hour of each other—sharing their “final walk” to the other side together.

Manny was a larger-than-life presence and will be dearly missed by all who loved him. He is preceded in death by his father, Manuel, mother, Francelina and beloved niece, Karen Gomes. Manny leaves behind four siblings, two nieces, seven nephews (including his godson), and countless friends who deeply feel the void his loss brings. 

In this time of grief, the immense outpouring of love and support from all who have reached out, whether personally or through social media, has been a source of comfort for his loved ones. We ask that you continue to remember Manny and keep his memory alive through your stories and, of course, through laughter (and maybe also, a good glass of wine or two).

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 13 from 2:30 pm until the time of  Mass of Christian Burial at 3:30 pm at St. Michael's Church, 800 Ocean Avenue in Long Branch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society, 2310 Rt. 34 Suite 1D, Manasquan NJ 08736 Web: https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate/memorial-giving.html or Aids Healthcare Foundation, 6255 Sunset Blvd. 21st Floor, Los Angeles CA 90028. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Manuel Ribeiro, please visit our floral store.