Manuel Eugene Elizondo Jr.

Manny was born and raised in Houston, Texas and grew up in Magnolia Park. As a child, his spiritual journey began at The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. He graduated from San Jacinto High School in 1967 and began working at Hughes Tools as a machinist. In 1968, Manuel served in the United States Marines Corps, exiting as a Corporal. After his military time, he returned back to Hughes Tools and went on to attend South Texas Junior College, now known as the University of Houston-Downtown. Manny married the love of his life, Suzanne Teri Cole, in 1973 and their union birthed four children. He was an extraordinary businessman, creating the construction company “Elizondo” in 1978. Through his career path and personal passions, he sought to glorify God through acts of service, love, and faithfulness. He was involved with various church ministries from evangelization to feeding the homeless. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Cursillo Movement. Manny was a devoted member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church before making the Catholic Charismatic Center his spiritual home, where he served as an acolyte.

Manny found great joy in family, friends, and ministering. He lived a life filled with love, kindness, wisdom, faith, and laughter, touching every heart he encountered with his compassion, generosity, humor, and spirit. Those who knew Manny saw a reflection of God's love in his everyday life and unwavering faith as a disciple of Christ, guiding people to know and follow the Lord. Manny’s life was a living testimony to the goodness and mercy of God, often reminding those around him that His grace is sufficient, and His love endures forever.

Manny was called home to be with the Lord on May 1, 2025, at the age of 76. He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Concepcion Elizondo. We find comfort in knowing his spirit is resting in eternal peace, reunited with family and friends, and embraced in the arms of our Savior.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Suzanne Elizondo; his children, Zacariah Elizondo (Teresa), Joshua Elizondo, Abrahm Elizondo, and Eliana Martin (Tony); his grandchildren, Brianna Allen-Martin, Jasmine Allen-Martin (Williams), Zacalinh Elizondo, Haylee Martin, Makayla Elizondo, and Naya Elizondo; his great-grandchildren, Bella Hernandez, Jai Hernandez, and Iïlah Hernandez; his sisters, Irene Castillo (Andres), Sylvia Chavez (Joe), and Dolores Vega (John); and countless dear family and friends. Though we grieve Manny’s absence, we trust in God's promise that we will see him again in His perfect time in paradise.

Rest peacefully, Manuel. Your light will continue to shine in all of us who loved you.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

All are invited to join us in celebrating a beautiful soul who lived well, loved deeply, and served faithfully. A memorial celebration honoring Manuel Elizondo’s life and faith will be held on May 7, 2025, at 5:00PM at Funeraria Del Angel Crespo (4136 Broadway, Houston, TX 77087). His funeral service will be held on May 8, 2025, at 8:30AM at the Catholic Charismatic Center (1949 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77023)