Manuel Phillipe DeLaRosa

Manuel Phillipe de LA Rosa, age 51 of San Marcos, Texas died of post-COVID complications on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 in Austin, Texas. Manny, as he was known by most, was born September 19, 1969 to Manuel and Benita de la Rosa in Austin, Texas. He was a natural, genuine leader with a captivating personality, ready smile, and caring spirit. Anyone who knew Manny, even for a brief time, can understand how the phrase ‘gentle giant’ fit him so perfectly. His actions throughout his life personify this title.

Manny was a proud member of the Class of 1988 from McCallum High School in Austin, where he played football and baseball. After graduation, he headed to The University of Texas at Austin. Manny’s blood was truly burnt orange, and it was at UT where he was introduced to Powerlifting. In addition to serving as the club Secretary, Manny became an Intramural Champion in Powerlifting. After receiving his Bachelor’s in Sociology, Manny worked at Motorola, Dell, and Time Warner Cable before fulfilling a life-long dream of becoming a police officer.

Manny received his Peace Officer Certification in May 2006 from Tarrant County Community College. He served as an Officer with Bridgeport P.D., Sunset Valley P.D., and Texas State University P.D. He also served as a Detective with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office. His most recent position as a Deputy with Hays County Constable Precinct 2 opened his eyes to another way he could serve his community, and he was looking forward to running for public office in the near future.

Family and friends described Manny as deeply loyal, compassionate, and empathetic to all. These traits made him an outstanding Peace Officer. It was his never-ending love for his daughter that made him an incredible Dad. Every moment possible, Manny spent it with Jamie. Going to the park, lunch or dinner dates, working on homework- if he was with Miss J, his world was complete. He was so proud of everything she did, and he did everything he could to make this world safer, better for her.

Manny was preceded in death by his mother, Benita de la Rosa, and his brother, Martin de la Rosa. He is survived by his daughter Jamie and her mother Virginia Higginbotham; his father, Manuel de la Rosa and wife Amalia; his sister Marietta de la Rosa and her husband Thomas Serold; his sister-in-law, Michelle de la Rosa and his nieces Sophia and Amelia. Manny is also survived by his step-sisters, Jennifer Fowler and Marcille Baumgartner, and his brothers from different mothers, David Martin and Duane Benavides.

Please join the family for a memorial service on Saturday, March 27, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Harrell Funeral Home, located at 1715 Kirby, Kyle, Texas 78640.