Man Lai Wong

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Man Lai Wong, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished member of the Staten Island community. She departed this life peacefully on June 25, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born Man Lai Lam on May 12, 1938, in China, she emigrated to the United States in the early 1960s in search of new opportunities and a better future. She made her home in New York, where she built a life rooted in hard work, family, and service to others. While working at a travel agency, she met and later married her devoted husband, Hong Poo Wong, with whom she shared a deep partnership until his passing.

Together, they raised two sons, Roy and Leon, and in the early 1970s, the couple opened a wholesale grocery store in Chinatown. The store quickly became a cornerstone of the neighborhood for nearly 30 years. Known fondly as “the lady who gave all the kids free candy and drinks,” Man Lai brought joy, generosity, and kindness to all who entered her shop. Her warm spirit and selfless heart left a lasting impression on generations of local families.

Man Lai was also deeply committed to her personal wellness, practicing Tai Chi daily for over 40 years, a testament to her discipline and appreciation for balance in life. She loved to travel, especially in her younger years, and later found fulfillment and connection through her involvement with the Chinese Christian community in Staten Island. Her faith and friendships provided her with strength and comfort throughout her retirement.

Of all her roles, perhaps the one she cherished most was being a grandmother. She was a constant source of support and encouragement to her granddaughters, Victoria and Alexandria Wong. She took great pride in watching them grow, graduate from university, launch their careers, and begin building lives of their own—milestones that brought her immense joy and pride.

Man Lai is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hong Poo Wong. She is survived by her loving sons, Roy and Leon; her devoted daughter-in-law, Susan; and her adored granddaughters, Victoria and Alexandria, and her dear brother. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on June 30, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314.

A funeral service will follow at the same location on July 1, 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Committal will take place at Moravian Cemetery, 2205 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306, from 12:00 pm to 12:15 pm.

Though she may no longer walk among us, the spirit of Man Lai Wong lives on in the laughter of her granddaughters, the memories shared by friends, and the quiet strength of her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.