Helen Jean Manier

Helen Jean Manier was born on December 18, 1933, in Springfield, Missouri, the youngest daughter of eight children born to Guy Littleton and Rosa Irene Ford England. On November 21, 1955, she married the love of her life, James Taylor Manier, and to this union, five children were born.

Helen attended Lincoln High School, an All-Black high school, in Springfield, Missouri. She was known for her vibrant spirit and involvement in the marching band and as a majorette, and she graduated in 1951.

Helen was a woman who loved her family and friends unconditionally, and she never met a stranger. She had a heart full of kindness and was the absolute Queen of Hostesses. If you had the privilege of visiting the Manier home, you never had to worry about being thirsty, hungry, or wanting for anything. She had a unique ability to ensure that everyone left her home feeling better than when they arrived. Her devotion to family was unparalleled, and she wholeheartedly believed that "Home is where the heart resides." Every child raised in the family knew that Helen would always sing them to sleep with her melodious rendition of "Bye, Oh Baby." The walls of their home reverberated with the sweet tune of "Pennies from Heaven" whenever Helen sang. If you were fortunate enough to hear her sing these songs, consider yourself truly blessed.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband James, four sisters; Melba, Zelma, Willetta, Rose; and three brothers; Guy, Howard, and Leon; and granddaughter, LaTasha Newsome.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of her children; Rodney Manier Sr., Ricky Manier Sr. [Bridget], Randy Manier [Thelma], Ronnie Manier [Felicia], and Regina Manier Welerford [Bryant]; as well as her adoring grandchildren Rodney Manier Jr. [Sharon], Aisha McCovery Phipps, Tyrand Manier, Sharonda Manier, Damien Manier, Rickisha Byrd [Jeff], Akilia Hightower, Keyle Hightower, Ricky Manier Jr., Keiana Manier, LaToya Manier, Briahna Manier, Ryan Manier, Ashley Manier, Taylor Manier, Taelor Roby,, Erik Brooks, and LaShanique Welerford. Her 37 great-grandchildren will carry on her memory and the love she bestowed upon them. Additionally, Helen leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and countless friends.

Helen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, a loving sister, aunt, cousin, and she will always be remembered for being the songstress of the family. Her warm and loving spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Helen Jean Manier's legacy of love and generosity will be cherished for generations to come.