Wilford Manuel

A Loving Tribute

Wilford Manuel was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma on May 17, 1934 to Arthur and Louvinia Manuel. His family later moved to Oklahoma City where he spent most of his childhood along with his siblings Thomas, Arlene, Odessa, Christine, and Arthur (who have all preceded him in death). During early adolescence he moved to Los Angeles and lived with his Aunt Ruby. He later moved in with relatives in San Francisco for a short period and thereafter completed his education in Los Angeles graduating from John C. Fremont High School. During these periods, Wilford showed a good work ethic, a keen eye for detail, artistry, wood crafting and upholstery skills. These talents ultimately led him in an entrepreneurial direction opening his own business in auto upholstery. His work was admired and sought after by many car enthusiast.

Wiford met Rena Ann Hairston at a dance in 1956 which culminated into marriage three years later. He said that “his real life began after he met Rena.”

“The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away”

Sol. 2: 12-13

This marriage lasted 43 years until Rena’s passing in 2001. To this union, was born four children, Trina Brown, Wilford Brian Manuel, Gary Manuel, and Cindy Potts. Wilford (referred to as “Father” by his children and several others) was a devoted and loving parent.

In 1961, he and Rena moved to Pacoima California, where he worked in several locations while establishing his business. After a few years, he was led by the Lord to travel down Maclay Ave to 7th Street in San Fernando and located a building to rent. Thereafter, he opened Manuel’s Auto Upholstery. In 1965 he received a contract from Weber Aircraft to re-cover armrests for aircraft seats. He also crafted chairs out of whiskey barrels which were later sold through Lee’s Bar Stools and Dinettes in their San Fernando location and others. He later diversified into auto restoration, and also taught vocational courses for a short period in auto upholstery.

Father found the Lord, and later began attending The Church of God in Jesus Christ, where he was ordained as a Minister. He often expressed appreciation for the sound doctrine provided through his mother-in-law Apostle Adelaide Hairston, which he adhered to and professed for the remaining years of his life.

He truly loved family and friends and enjoyed stimulating and lengthy conversations in history, education and current events. Father had a natural curiosity and sought an understanding for a variety of subjects. In later years, he enjoyed company with a friendly group of individuals for breakfast most every morning. Traveling was also a pleasure when provided an opportunity to visit his family.

Father departed this life on Saturday, September 5th, 2015 at his home in Pacoima California. He leaves to cherish his legacy, daughter Trina Brown (Steven Brown), son Brian Manuel, son Gary Manuel (Karen Manuel), daughter Cindy Potts (Dwyane Potts); grandchildren, Tiffany Brown, Darius Manuel, Torrie Brown, Courtney Manuel, Jasmine Manuel, Marcus Manuel, Quentin Potts, Sadie Manuel, Kaiden Manuel, Olivia Potts; great grandson Aaron McCoy, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Our father embodied strength, character, and integrity in the Lord. He was also a devoted and dedicated family man who will be truly missed. Because of this, we believe his legacy will live on.

In lieu of flowers please contribute a donation to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture at nmaahc.si.edu