John Allan Manilla

Born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, to Vito and Helen Manilla, Jack lived a life marked by devotion—to his faith, his family, and his work. He married Paula Gale Manilla on November 26, 1960, and together they shared 65 years of love and partnership.

Jack earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Youngstown University and later a Master’s Degree in Management from Aquinas College. His professional journey spanned decades, including leadership roles such as National Sales Manager at Westinghouse, Director of Marketing at Herman Miller, and Executive Vice President for a private firm. He was inducted into Marquis Who’s Who and remained active in numerous organizations, including Wise Counsel, the North Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, Southside Business Men’s Club, and the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce. He also served as Chairman for both the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals and the International Swimming Pool Association.

In 2021, Jack retired after selling Portofino Pools, Inc., the business he co-owned with Paula. Even in retirement, he continued to offer business consulting, sharing his wisdom and experience generously.

A man of deep faith, Jack was a devoted member of San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church in St. Johns, Florida, where he participated in ministries such as Christ Renews His Parish. He was a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, Switzerland Council 12664.

Jack was also a published author, having written Secrets of the Pink House: From Saltwater to Holy Water. He enjoyed reading, traveling, and staying active.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Manilla; daughter Jacqueline (Barrie Hudson) of Grand Junction, CO; sons John Manilla (Shelly) of Hudsonville, MI; Paul Manilla (Michael LaPlaca) of New York, NY and Bettona, Italy; and Bradley Manilla (Ester Goldberg) of Charlotte, NC. He was a proud grandfather to John R. Manilla (Mary), Megan (Martin Lopez), Montana Manilla, Madison Manilla, and Carly Manilla, and great-grandfather to Ethan and Liam Manilla.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Vito and Helen Manilla of Sharon, PA, brother, Robert Manilla, and sister, Arlene Egelsky, both of Hubbard, Ohio.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church, 1718 State Road 13 North, St. Johns, FL 32259. Interment will be at the church’s columbarium.

Memorial contributions may be made to San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church- Christ Renews His Parish Ministry and Knights of Columbus, Switzerland Council 12664- Field of Dreams Program in honor of Jack.

💬 Tributes & Memories

Jack’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched—with his kindness, leadership, and unwavering faith. Please feel free to share your memories, stories, or messages of condolence. The family deeply appreciates your love and support.