Manuel J. Taormina Jr.

Manuel J. Taormina, Jr., passed away peacefully at home on April 30, 2026. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of nearly 39 years, Hope Patin Taormina; his sisters, Mary Ann Hymel (Charles), Joan Bayard (Timothy); Carmel Dewey (Peter); his brother, Michael S. Taormina; his mother-in-law, Joy R. Patin; his sisters-in-law, Joy A. Patin, Joan P. Normand (Michael); and his brothers-in-law, Richard J. Patin (Pam), Edward A. Patin, Robert J. Patin (Gina). He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and dear friends whom he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel J. Taormina, Sr. and Claire Barthel Taormina, his sister, Irene F. Taormina and his father-in-law, Richard X. Patin.

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 27, 1946, Manny was a graduate of St. James Major elementary school and Cor Jesu High School (class of 1965). He served as the I.T. General Manager of Delta-Com Services, Inc., for over 33 years representing major banks, hospitals and corporations across the state.

Manny cared most about his faith, family, friends, food, fun and his love of gardening. He was a great storyteller and loved to talk about New Orleans history. He could be found in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes or perfecting his classic dishes like Pesto and “Oh My Gawd” dip. Manny and Hope traveled extensively, including Texas, Florida, Las Vegas and Europe. Italy was Manny’s favorite which he and Hope experienced with lifelong friends, Frank and Rhonda Tusa. Manny was happiest on his boat, “Lady Robolo,” with a fishing rod in his hand, sharing countless adventures and tall tales on the water with his friends, Frank, Steve, Tony, Johnny and Wynn to name a few.

Manny was a long-time devoted member of the Krewe of Endymion for over 50 years and served as a float lieutenant. He especially enjoyed the Coronation Balls and Extravaganzas. He and his lifelong friend Larry Tusa, coined the phrase and lived by the motto “throw till it hurts!”

Manny was deeply loved and was overwhelmed by the outpouring of the support he received in his final weeks and days.

The family wishes to thank the employees of East Jefferson General Hospital and St. Joseph Hospice for the best care, compassion, kindness and respect they demonstrated.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9 AM with a Mass following at 11 AM. Manuel will be laid to rest in Metairie Cemetery immediately after the chapel service has concluded.

Those who wish to honor Manny, instead of flowers, please make donations to Children’s Hospital, 200 Henry Clay Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118; Autism Science Foundation, 3 Continental Road Scarsdale, NY 10583; or Masses are requested.