Richard Melvin Manuel

Richard “Rick” Melvin Manuel, age 70, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in Halifax at Parkstone Enhanced Care after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Woodstock, New Brunswick, on September 12, 1955, Rick was the middle child of Clinton and Winnifred Manuel. He grew up on the family farm in Knowlesville, NB, alongside his beloved siblings, Edith and Brent—an upbringing that helped shape his work ethic, his sense of adventure, and his lifelong devotion to Jesus.

Rick graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Science in 1977 and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Dalhousie University in 1986. He devoted his life to service—of his family, his community, and his faith.

Over a career spanning more than 35 years in Nova Scotia’s health system, Rick worked in both the public and private sectors, many of those years as Director of Policy and Planning with the Nova Scotia Department of Health. His work had a direct and lasting impact on health policy formulation, legislation, and analysis across the province.

In retirement, Rick followed a calling that had long been on his heart, completing his Lay Pastor diploma through the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC). This led him to serve as Pastor of Newport Baptist Church in Scotch Village, NS—a role he embraced with gratitude, humility, and deep commitment. He especially loved leading his congregation in worship and walking alongside people in their faith journeys. Rick was a dedicated volunteer within the Christian community. He served on the board of directors for Citizens for Public Justice (CPJ), on the council for the Canadian Association for Baptist Freedoms (CABF), and as Treasurer for Kempt United Baptist Church. His passion for community healthcare also continued into retirement through his service on the advisory committee for NS Building Research for Integrated Primary Healthcare.

Worship and music were central joys in Rick’s life, especially when shared with his wife, Janet. He cherished going on adventures with his sons—hiking, camping, river rafting, or simply exploring new places together—and he took tremendous delight in watching his grandchildren discover the world around them.

Rick was predeceased by his beloved wife, Janet, in the summer of 2020. He leaves behind his two sons, John (Jessica) and Mark (Amanda), who were the pride of his life; his cherished grandchildren, Arden and Alyse; and his loving siblings, Edith (Larry) and Brent (Joanne). He will also be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many dear friends.

Those who knew Rick will remember him as thoughtful, caring, and dignified—an intelligent man with a warm sense of humour, a gentle soul, and an adventurous spirit. He loved tending to his property, seeking out new experiences, pouring into his family, and living out his deep devotion to Jesus. His faith shaped every chapter of his life, leaving a legacy that will continue to ripple outward through the countless lives he touched.

A funeral service will be held at All Nations Church (2535 Robie St.) on Monday, March 9th at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow.

Interment will take place at a later date.

Rick will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Romans 8:38–39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.